Best ENCORE Research Group Podcasts (2025)

1
The Brain's Worst Hit: Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury 6:18

5d ago6:18

6:18

On this week's episode, written by guest author Christy Kestner, PhD, we discuss traumatic brain injury; when the brain gets banged around enough to cause damage. We explore the causes, problems, some ways to protect yourself, and what to do if you or someone you know experiences a traumatic brain injury; along with signs and symptoms to help ident…

1
How Health Systems Win in Specialty Pharmacy w/ Dr. Tim Affeldt 35:22

7d ago35:22

35:22

Specialty pharmacy is big business. And while PBMs and big pharma dominate the spotlight, health systems are quietly carving out their own advantage. In this episode of Health Care Rounds, host, John Marchica, sits down with Tim Affeldt, PharmD, Vice President, Specialty/Infusion Operations, Fairview Pharmacy Services, to unpack why health systems …

1
How Inflammation Threatens Your Kidneys and Heart 7:08

11d ago7:08

7:08

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is incredibly common, affecting 1 in 7 Americans, and heart disease is a common cause of death for those with CKD. In this week's article we explore the role inflammation plays in chronic kidney disease and how the same inflammation that damages the kidneys may also lead to damage in other parts of the body, including t…

1
Steering Treatments for Major Depressive Disorder 6:20

19d ago6:20

6:20

In this week's episode we review Major Depressive Disorder, a common mental disorder affecting millions of Americans. We explore who this disorder affects, what happens in the brain and body, and what treatments are available. We also get into the psychadellic substance psilocybin (psylocin) and how this breakthrough therapy may help those with Maj…

1
Beneath the Surface of Hidradenitis Suppurativa 5:21

26d ago5:21

5:21

In this week's episode, we explore the chronic inflammatory skin condition Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). With HS, hair follicles located in large skin creases like the armpits become inflamed and clogged. The units, called the pilosebaceous unit, fill with puss, rupture, and cause a host of problems for sufferers. We investigate what hidradenitis …

1
Dehydration Isn't a Day at the Beach 6:23

1M ago6:23

6:23

In this episode we review what happens in dehydrtion, who may be at increased risk, and what happens to the body when it doesn't get enoug hwater. We also distinguish between two major types of dehydration; intracellular (without salt loss) and extracellular (with salt loss). Learn all about how this summer condition can lead to problems that feel …

1
The Cost of Extra Weight on Heart Failure Risk 5:04

1M ago5:04

5:04

This week, we investigate the links between heart failure and obesity. We explore what heart failure is, the risks, and how it can have long-term impacts on health. We also look into obesity, some of it's causes, and how it can contribute to heart failure risks. We also look at he two-way street between heart failure and obesty and how each can con…

1
85–90% of Primary Liver Cancers Are Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Why Aren’t We Catching It Sooner? 6:17

2M ago6:17

6:17

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is the most common cause of primary liver cancer. Curative treatments include surgery and transplant, but many patients don't know they have the disease until it's too late. In this week's article, we explore what HCC is, risks and complications of the disease, and what people can do to find out if they have signs of …

1
From Cross-Contamination to Cure: Hepatitis C 5:21

2M ago5:21

5:21

In this week's episode, we look into the history of Hepatitis C. The hepatitis C virus spread far and wide during the era before modern sterilization and screening, infecting millions. We look into the history, risks, symptoms (many have none!), and complications of hepatitis C. Finally, we look at how far treatment has progressed and what's coming…

1
Better Health Policy Starts with Better Data w/ David C. Radley, Ph.D., M.P.H. 56:21

2M ago56:21

56:21

What happens when state health policymakers lose access to the very data they rely on? In this episode of Health Care Rounds, John Marchica talks with David C. Radley, Ph.D., M.P.H., Director of Data and Analytics at The Center for Evidence-Based Policy and Senior Scientist at the Commonwealth Fund. They explore how states use administrative data t…

1
Speaking About Social Anxiety Disorder 5:10

2M ago5:10

5:10

In this episode, we delve into the science and struggle behind social anxiety disorder. This condition affects millions of people and often begins in childhood. We explore how the brain’s fear circuitry becomes overactive, and common treatments like SSRIs. We also highlight an intriguing new treatment being tested: a nasal spray of pheromone-like c…

1
Gastroparesis Turns Meals into Misery 3:54

2M ago3:54

3:54

In this episode, we explore the complex world of gastroparesis. Gastroparesis is a condition that slows the stomach’s ability to empty food and turns mealtime into a daily challenge. From the science behind digestion to the symptoms, causes, and evolving treatments for idiopathic gastroparesis, we break down what happens when the stomach stops coop…

1
When Life Gives You Limes, Solve Scurvy 5:15

3M ago5:15

5:15

Scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, once killed thousands of sailors during long sea voyages. The breakthrough came in 1747 when Dr. James Lind conducted the first recorded clinical trial, proving citrus fruits could prevent the illness. British sailors were later issued lime juice, earning them the nickname “limeys.” Though now consi…

1
Tinnitus Treatments Result From Clinical Trials 4:34

3M ago4:34

4:34

This week we explore tinnitus, a condition marked by ringing in the ears. Tinnitus is affects roughly 10% of Americans and remains poorly understood. Unfortunately, this poor understanding means there are no disease-modifying treatments available. Luckily, clinical researchers have been hard at work looking for relief for tinnitus sufferers, and th…

1
Building Sustainable Primary Care for Seniors w/ Tom Yackel, MD, MPH, MS, MBA 41:27

3M ago41:27

41:27

Value-based care isn’t a new idea—but making it work in today’s fragmented system is anything but simple. In this episode of Health Care Rounds, John Marchica talks with Dr. Tom Yackel, Chief Clinical Excellence Officer at CenterWell Senior Primary Care, about what it really takes to deliver high-quality, cost-effective care to Medicare patients. D…

1
Can We Train the Immune System to Kill Cancer? 4:55

3M ago4:55

4:55

In this week's episode, we jump into the emerging field of personalized cancer vaccines. Cancer remains the second leading cause of death worldwide due to its complex nature. "Cancer" actually encompasses over 275 diseases, each driven by genetic mutations that make cancer cells act independently and harmfully within the body. Find out how scientis…

1
How Patient-Reported Outcomes Create Value and Improve Health w/ Trafford Crump, Ph.D 47:34

3M ago47:34

47:34

Value-based care is more than just a buzzword - it’s a fundamental shift in how we measure success in health care. In this episode of Health Care Rounds, John Marchica sits down with Dr. Trafford Crump, Associate Professor at McGill University, to discuss how patient-reported outcomes (PROs) can help us better understand the value of care from the …

1
Vascular Dementia: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment Options 3:40

3M ago3:40

3:40

In this week's episode, we talk about vascular dementia, a significant yet often overlooked brain disorder caused by reduced blood flow, usually due to stroke and/or vascular disease. It accounts for 15-20% of dementia cases and leads to cognitive decline, memory loss, and motor impairments. While no cure exists, prevention is key—controlling risk …

1
Why Measles Has Gone From Eradicated To Outbreak 6:19

3M ago6:19

6:19

Measles a highly contagious virus that can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and death. It was declared eradicated in the U.S. in the year 2000 but has resurfaced, with over 700 cases reported so far this year. What are the causes of this latest outbreak? Despite a long history of vaccine success, recent declines in …

1
Psoriasis and the Immune System: More Confusing Than Teenage Slang 5:00

4M ago5:00

5:00

On this week, we discuss psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting 2-3% of Americans. It's characterized by red, flaky skin and linked to serious health conditions like arthritis and cardiovascular disease. It results from an overactive immune response which may be initiated or worsened by environmental factors such as stress, obesity, and …

1
Clinical Trials Have Opened Doors to COPD Medications 6:43

4M ago6:43

6:43

In this week we talk about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive lung condition that restricts airflow due to chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which damages the alveoli. COPD affects around 11% of adults over 30 and is linked to smoking, pollution, and genetic factors. This episode relates COPD to a house with big rooms and n…

1
Pharmacy as a Strategic Asset in Health Systems w/ Dr. Tyson Frodin, AVP of Pharmacy, MultiCare 48:51

4M ago48:51

48:51

In another installment of our Pharma Series, we're joined by Dr. Tyson Frodin, Assistant Vice President of Pharmacy at MultiCare, to explore the evolving role of pharmacy in health care. Tyson shares insights from his diverse career path - from his early experience in telehealth on a Navajo reservation, to leading pharmacy initiatives at a top heal…

1
A New Type of Memory Loss in Older Adults 5:05

4M ago5:05

5:05

This podcast explores Limbic-predominant Amnestic Neurodegenerative Syndrome (LANS), a newly identified condition that primarily affects episodic memory while leaving other cognitive functions relatively intact. LANS is associated with the misfolding of TDP-43, a protein that can accumulate and damage limbic structures. Unlike Alzheimer’s, LANS has…

1
The Hidden Cost of Health Care Data Silos w/ Jason Bryll, Principal, Parable Associates 42:07

4M ago42:07

42:07

In this episode of Health Care Rounds, Host John Marchica sits down with Jason Bryll, Principal at Parable Associates, to unpack why health care organizations struggle with managing financial and patient data. They discuss the challenges of revenue cycle management, the headache of disconnected systems, and how better data practices can lead to bet…

1
Alzheimer’s at the Genetic Level 5:03

4M ago5:03

5:03

Medical treatments are shifting from broad approaches to precise genetic targeting, especially for finicky diseases like Alzheimer's dementia. While many past efforts focused on amyloid β plaques, new research is exploring genetic regulators like APP, which influences amyloid levels, and KDM5, an enzyme linked to memory and cognition. Clinical tria…

1
Digging Up the Truth About Potatoes 5:45

5M ago5:45

5:45

This St. Patrick's Day we explore the history, nutritional profile, and potential health benefits of potatoes. Potatoes are a major global food staple, providing significant calories worldwide. Though often criticized for their high glycemic index (GI), different cooking methods, particularly chilling after cooking, can increase resistant starches,…

1
What are Cluster Headaches? 6:28

5M ago6:28

6:28

In this week's episode, we discuss cluster headaches, one of the most severe pain conditions known. This rare condition affects about one in a thousand people with excruciating, clockwork-like attacks can last for weeks or months, with few effective treatment options. In this episode, we break down the causes, triggers, and latest research on clust…

1
The Intersection of Pharma, Business and Patient Care w/ Jon Brown, MHA, DPLA 49:43

5M ago49:43

49:43

In another installment of our Pharma Series, we sit down with Jon Brown, MHA, DPLA, Director of Pharmacy-System Operations and Logistics at IU Health, to explore how his team is transforming pharmacy services. From launching one of the most advanced centralized pharmacy facilities in the country to navigating drug shortages and cutting costs, Jon s…

1
Alzheimer’s Anxiety: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and When to Act 3:55

5M ago3:55

3:55

Forgetting a name or misplacing your keys can be frustrating, but when does memory loss signal something more serious? In this episode, we explain the key differences between normal aging and Alzheimer’s disease. We break down how doctors diagnose Alzheimer’s, the role of biomarkers, and why early detection is crucial for those considering clinical…

1
New Research on Heart Failure: Understanding IL-6 and Inflammation 4:38

5M ago4:38

4:38

This week, we talk about one of the big contributors to heart failure: inflammation. Heart failure affects millions and comes in two main types: HFrEF (weakened pumping) and HFpEF (thickened, stiff walls). While conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes contribute, chronic inflammation—driven in part by Interleukin 6 (IL-6)—plays a major rol…

1
HCR Matt Porch Encore 1:12:30

5M ago1:12:30

1:12:30

In this encore episode of Health Care Rounds, Matt Portch, Consultant at MPC&R LLC, joins host John Marchica to explore the evolving collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and Integrated Delivery Networks (IDNs). Additionally, Matt sheds light on how both have adapted to new technologies and market shifts. Matt is a seasoned pharmaceutical …

1
Short Circuits in the Heart: A Look at Atrial Fibrillation 5:06

6M ago5:06

5:06

When the hot water went out, you might call a plumber, but if the water heater is out it might instead be an electrical problem - just like how heart problems can stem from faulty electrical signals rather than the heart muscle itself. Atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common arrhythmia affecting six million Americans, disrupts the heart’s elect…

1
2025 Health Care Trends and Policy Predictions with John Driscoll 40:20

6M ago40:20

40:20

What does it take to transform health care and address its most pressing challenges? Few individuals are as uniquely positioned to answer as John Driscoll. With a storied career as an author, chairman, investor, CEO, and host of the CareTalk podcast, John has had an impact on nearly every facet of the health care industry. Drawing from decades of l…

1
The Heart is the Beat of Life 4:30

6M ago4:30

4:30

This week's podcast is a crash course on what the heart is, why we need it, how it works, and what can go wrong. Share with a friend. Rate, Review, and Subscribe to MedEvidence! Articles to be notified when new episodes are released. Follow us on Social Media: Facebook Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Tiktok Youtube For more great content, including disc…

1
Alzheimer’s and ADHD, the Missing Link? 6:02

6M ago6:02

6:02

This week we talk about two recent studies which suggest a potential link between adult ADHD and an increased risk of developing dementia; though causation remains unproven. These studies, one in Israel and another in Sweden, found that adults with ADHD were significantly more likely to develop dementia or mild cognitive impairment. These findings …

1
Shiny Legs, Hidden Danger 6:21

6M ago6:21

6:21

This week we discuss peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition affecting blood flow in the peripheral arteries, most commonly in the legs. We cover its symptoms, such as leg pain, skin changes, and slow-healing wounds, as well as the potential risks of untreated PAD, including amputation and cardiovascular complications. We then talk about treat…

1
Expanding Health Care Access with Portable Care Solutions w/ OnMed CEO Karthik Ganesh 44:16

6M ago44:16

44:16

Health care access, especially rural health care, has long been defined by systemic challenges, including limited access to specialists, provider shortages, and geographic barriers hindering patient care. These obstacles continue to strain health systems and impact outcomes in underserved communities. But what if new technologies could address thes…

1
Is the Deadliest Condition Preventable? Understanding ASCVD and LDL-C 5:40

6M ago5:40

5:40

This episode explores atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), the leading cause of heart attacks and strokes worldwide. Learn about the role of LDL cholesterol in the development of fatty plaques that harden and block blood vessels, as well as the risks associated with ASCVD, including heart disease and peripheral artery disease. The episod…

1
From Trials to Triumph: 2024’s FDA approvals 7:12

7M ago7:12

7:12

Join us this week for a brief tour of some body systems as we review five medications approved by the FDA in 2024. From liver disease to Alzheimer’s, we look at Rezdiffra, Iqirvo, Vafseo, Entyvio, and Kisunla, exploring the diseases they intend to treat and a brief overview of how the medicines work. We celebrate the hard work of volunteers, invest…

1
Increasing Transparency with Cost-Plus Drug Pricing w/ MakoRx Founder Vinay Patel 1:02:12

7M ago1:02:12

1:02:12

Every year, medication prices keep going up, putting even more strain on Americans’ budgets. To make it worse, the price you see online often doesn’t match what you’re charged at the pharmacy counter. So why the lack of transparency? And equally important, what can be done to ease the pressure of these rising costs? Join Vinay Patel, founder of Mak…

1
Shedding Light on Seasonal Depression 5:10

7M ago5:10

5:10

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a subtype of Major Depressive Disorder that fluctuates with the seasons. Seasonal Affective Disorder, a condition affecting millions during the darker months. We explore its symptoms, causes, and demographic prevalence, highlighting its impact on mood, cognition, …

1
Migraine vs. Komodo Dragon: A Battle of Headache Proportions 5:58

7M ago5:58

5:58

This week we discuss episodic and chronic migraines. Migraines are primary headaches that affect about a billion people globally each year. In this weeks episode, we discuss symptoms and the differences between episodic and chronic migraines. Learn about risk factors, treatment options, and why accurate and appropriate treatment is critical to keep…

1
No Gym, No Problem: Making Fitness Work for You 6:22

7M ago6:22

6:22

This podcast episode examines the challenges of sticking to fitness resolutions and how to make exercise more accessible and sustainable. We discuss the health benefits of physical activity, the impact of stress on the body, and why reducing barriers like time, cost, and convenience can improve consistency. Learn practical tips for incorporating fi…

1
Will the Science of Exosomes Revolutionize Medicine? 5:24

7M ago5:24

5:24

This week, we dive into the fascinating world of exosomes, the body’s nano-sized delivery drivers and communication hubs. We’ll explore what exosomes are, their role in cell-to-cell communication and healing, and the potential medical applications they offer. These include drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and combating diseases like cancer and…

1
Are You Treating Your Sinus Headache All Wrong? 4:29

8M ago4:29

4:29

Sinus headaches are annoying, bothersome, and might not really be sinus-related for most people! We look at research that explains why sinus inflammation is rarely the cause headaches above the sinuses and how accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Learn about the role of sinuses, why facial pain isn’t always what it seems, and ho…

1
Lipoprotein (a): The Cholesterol You Inherit, Not Eat 7:05

8M ago7:05

7:05

As we approach Thanksgiving and gather with family, it's the perfect time to ponder how our genetics, from eye color to cholesterol levels, shape our lives in unique and sometimes dangerous ways. This episode sheds explores how genetic disorders run in families and looks at lipoprotein (a), a very very very very bad kind of cholesterol. We also lea…

1
Empowering In-home Care With Private-Duty Nursing, with Jasmine Bhatti 39:36

8M ago39:36

39:36

Value-based care has rapidly gained momentum in recent years, but challenges persist — particularly when care is delivered in the home. Our guest, Jasmine Bhatti, Founder and CEO of Navi Nurses, explains how private-duty nursing can deliver better clinical and financial outcomes for providers while offering compassionate at-home care to patients in…

1
Statins Good or Bad: Why the Popularity of Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs Sparks Criticism 7:08

9M ago7:08

7:08

In this episode we unpack the facts, controversies, and benefits surrounding the most prescribed drugs for lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol. Statins reduce risks of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, yet concerns over side effects - like muscle pain and blood sugar increases - fuel debates around their use. We’ll explore how statins work…

1
The Physical and Mental Toll of PTSD 6:39

9M ago6:39

6:39

In this week's episode we explore how trauma affects many system in the body, with symptoms that can last years or even decades. PTSD impacts not only mental health but also physical health, causing chronic stress that can lead to cardiovascular issues, metabolic changes, and immune dysfunction. We’ll break down the science behind stress responses …

1
Advancing Health Care Policies to Meet People's Needs w/ Natalie Davis 42:59

9M ago42:59

42:59

It’s no secret that the health care for millions of Americans isn’t working, with many in dire need of immediate action. The demand for bipartisan solutions, new policies, and technological advancements for the health care system has never been greater. Our guest, Natalie Davis, co-founder and CEO of United States of Care, joins us to share her tho…

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