What’s Next In Your CME Writing Journey? Let’s Map It Out. Write Medicine podcast

26:13

CME professionals, medical writers, educators, and researchers - what would you do if PubMed suddenly became less accessible? You depend on this critical resource daily to find evidence-based information that powers your work. But recent funding uncertainties at the NIH have raised questions about its future. You need consistent, reliable access to quality biomedical research to meet deadlines and maintain credibility, but navigating alternatives can feel overwhelming. Where would you even begin if your go-to resource is compromised? Today's episode is your insurance policy. My conversation with medical librarian Rachel Wedeward MLIS, AHIP reveals not only why PubMed matters, but also provides you with practical alternatives, including a downloadable resource sheet, and evaluation strategies to ensure you'll never be left without the research you need - no matter what happens. In this episode, you'll discover: The remarkable infrastructure behind PubMed's indexing system that makes it an indispensable tool for organizing and accessing biomedical research A comprehensive overview of complementary resources, including European PubMed Central and specialized databases that can enhance your research approach Practical wisdom for evaluating evidence quality Listen now to expand your research toolkit with expert knowledge that will help you confidently navigate the evolving landscape of medical information resources. Connect with Rachel Website LinkedIn 📚 Resources PubMed The essential biomedical database maintained by the U.S. National Library of Medicine. A critical starting point for CME writers and medical educators to access peer-reviewed research. European PubMed Central A free database of biomedical and life sciences research literature from Europe. A strong alternative to PubMed. Grey Literature Sources Sometimes the best insights aren’t found in journals. Examples of trusted grey literature repositories include: Kaiser Family Foundation Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Find guides on Rachel's website Alex's Sharable Evidence Bank (>70 sources)…

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What’s next in your CME writing journey? Let’s map it out. 17:54

8 days ago17:54

17:54

Have you ever wondered what it actually takes to go from “interested in CME writing” to running a thriving, sustainable business? In this final episode of the CME Writing Success Blueprint series, I'm tying everything together—because mastering individual skills is only part of the equation. What really creates success is integration. Whether you're transitioning from academia, clinical practice, or general medical writing, you'll walk away with a clear picture of how to turn your curiosity into a high-impact freelance career. Listen in to learn: A practical breakdown of the ROADMAP Framework —the 7 pillars for building a CME writing business from the ground up How to translate your existing skills into profitable client work—even if you’re just getting started What a thriving CME writing business actually looks like (spoiler: it’s about confidence, consistent income, and creative freedom) 🎧 Tune in now and take the first step toward building a CME writing business that’s focused, flexible, and truly fulfilling. → Join WriteCME Accelerator and build your CME writing business with clarity, confidence, and community.…

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You Don’t Have to Go It Alone: How Mentorship and Community Accelerate Your CME Writing Growth 26:30

15 days ago26:30

26:30

Are you trying to figure out CME writing all on your own—and wondering why it feels so hard to make real progress? If you’re navigating the world of freelance medical writing, especially in the niche of continuing medical education (CME), you might be feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or isolated. In this episode, we unpack one of the biggest reasons many freelancers stall: trying to build a business without support. Whether you're just starting out or trying to grow strategically, this episode offers insight into how mentorship and peer community can transform your path. Here’s what you’ll gain from listening: Clarity on why going solo slows your growth—and how guidance can shorten the learning curve. Real-world examples of how mentorship delivers personalized feedback, industry insight, and opportunities you won’t find on Google. A deep dive into the power of peer community for accountability, emotional support, and confidence-building collaboration. Tune in now to discover how mentorship and community can fast-track your CME writing success—and help you build a career that’s sustainable, supported, and fulfilling. 💻 Live Workshop: CME Writing Success Formula…

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CME Writing Isn’t Just Craft—It’s Commerce: Pricing, Clients, and Professional Systems 26:59

22 days ago26:59

26:59

Are you a talented medical writer struggling to turn your CME skills into a profitable business? In this episode of Write Medicine , we pull back the curtain on the business side of CME writing—where creativity meets commerce. You'll learn what seasoned freelancers wish they’d known sooner: how to set your rates with confidence, where to find ideal clients, and what systems you need to run a professional, low-stress writing business. Imagine working with clients who respect your time, value your expertise, and pay you what you're worth. With the right pricing models and a clear plan, you can transform your freelance CME writing hustle into a thriving, sustainable business. Listen now to learn how to elevate your CME writing practice from freelance fatigue to freelance freedom. And if you’re ready to dive deeper, register for my free upcoming workshop— CME Writing Success Formula . Details below. Resources Save Your Spot → 🧭 Live online workshop CME Writing Success Formula…

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From Novice to Expert: Building Your CME Confidence 19:29

29 days ago19:29

19:29

Are self-doubt and imposter syndrome stopping you from breaking into CME writing, even though you have valuable skills to offer? Many aspiring CME writers struggle with confidence, especially when they lack clinical backgrounds. This episode addresses the "confidence paradox" - needing experience to gain confidence, but requiring confidence to get that experience - and provides practical strategies to break this cycle so you can successfully position yourself in the CME writing field. From this episode, you'll learn: How to identify and leverage your transferable skills that are directly applicable to CME writing Practical approaches to building a targeted CME portfolio, even without extensive industry experience Five confidence-building strategies that successful CME writers use to overcome self-doubt Listen now to transform your mindset from "I don't know enough" to becoming a confident CME writer that clients trust and want to work with. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:29 The Confidence Paradox in CME Writing 03:43 Identifying Your Transferable Skills 07:58 Building Your CME Writing Portfolio 11:28 Practical Strategies for Building Confidence 14:54 Conclusion and Next Steps Join the WriteCME Accelerator waitlist Grab the CME Skills Inventory worksheet…

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Breaking into CME: The Ecosystem & Opportunities 19:42

5 weeks ago19:42

19:42

Are you struggling to understand how the CME industry works—who creates it, how it’s funded, and where freelance medical writers fit in? If breaking into CME writing feels like a mystery, this episode will give you the clarity you need. Navigating the CME ecosystem can be overwhelming for new writers. Understanding the industry structure, key players, and content types is essential to positioning yourself for success. This episode breaks down the CME landscape so you can confidently find your place and start building your career. Learn how the CME industry operates, from accreditation to funding sources, so you can target the right opportunities. Discover the different types of CME content you can write, from needs assessments to microlearning, and identify the best fit for your skills. Understand how to position yourself in the ecosystem, connect with accredited providers, and begin your journey into CME writing. If you're ready to cut through the confusion and confidently step into CME writing, press play now and explore where you fit in this thriving industry. Join the WriteCME Accelerator waitlist Grab the CME Ecosystem Map…

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The WriteCME Success Blueprint: Is CME Writing Right for You? 17:09

6 weeks ago17:09

17:09

Have you ever wondered if medical writing could be a fulfilling and financially rewarding career path? If so, how do you know whether continuing medical education (CME) writing is the right specialty for you? CME writing is a thriving niche that allows writers to contribute to evidence-based education for healthcare professionals while building a sustainable freelance business. However, breaking into CME can feel overwhelming—What does it involve? Do you need a medical background? How do you get started? In this episode, we clear up the confusion and help you determine whether CME writing aligns with your skills, interests, and professional goals. Discover what CME writing entails and how it differs from other types of medical writing. Learn about the diverse professional backgrounds that transition well into CME writing, from researchers and science communicators to clinicians and educators. Gain clarity on whether your skills, work preferences, and interests align with the demands and opportunities in this specialized field. If you’re curious about CME writing and want to explore how to break into this rewarding field, tune in now and take the first step toward building a fulfilling writing career. Join the waitlist for WriteCME Accelerator…

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Building a Thriving CME Community: Why Networking Isn’t Enough for Career Growth 12:11

7 weeks ago12:11

12:11

Do you ever feel like you're navigating your career in CME alone, unsure of where you fit in or how to grow without burning out? Many CME professionals work independently or remotely, which can be both rewarding and isolating. Beyond professional networks, building a true community can provide the support, engagement, and inspiration needed to thrive in this field. In this episode, we explore why community matters in CME, how it enhances career growth and well-being, and practical steps you can take to create meaningful connections. Discover how a strong professional community can boost your career and well-being. Understand the key elements that define a thriving professional community. Learn practical ways to engage in and build a community that supports your growth in CME. Listen now to uncover the power of community in CME and learn how to cultivate meaningful professional connections that will support your long-term success. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: Navigating the CME Field Alone 00:48 The Importance of Community in CME 01:50 Defining Community and Its Elements 02:38 Personal Experiences of Belonging 03:50 Shared Values and Mutual Support in CME 05:08 Networks vs. Communities 06:29 Benefits of Community for CME Professionals 10:19 Practical Steps to Engage in Community 11:01 Conclusion and Next Steps Next WriteCME Accelerator Cohort is May, 2025. Join the Waitlist .…

Write Medicine

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PubMed Uncertainty: Smart Alternatives for CME Professionals 5:50

8 weeks ago5:50

5:50

What would happen if the go-to resource for your CME research—PubMed—became unreliable or inaccessible? Would your workflow survive the disruption? As CME professionals, we depend on PubMed for high-quality, evidence-based research. But with looming funding changes it’s time to rethink how we source medical literature. This episode unpacks the latest developments and gives you a proactive plan to safeguard your research process. Learn why PubMed's future is uncertain and what that means for CME professionals. Discover alternative medical research tools that can fill the gaps if PubMed access is disrupted. Get expert-backed strategies to diversify your literature search and stay ahead of potential research barriers. Hit play now to future-proof your CME research strategy and ensure uninterrupted access to high-quality medical literature! Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of PubMed for CME Professionals 00:32 Potential Threats to PubMed 02:21 Speculative Changes and Their Implications 02:40 Preparing for Potential Disruptions 03:03 Alternative Research Tools and Strategies 04:06 Staying Informed and Connected 04:26 Conclusion and Call to Action Resources Europe PMC – A free resource for accessing biomedical literature, serving as an alternative to PubMed. Wayback Machine – A digital archive that allows retrieval of past versions of web pages, including government health pages. DeepDyve – A subscription-based service that archives PubMed files daily and provides access to research papers. EU Clinical Trials Register – A database of clinical trials conducted in Europe, cross-referenced with ClinicalTrials.gov. Leave a voice note for Alex…

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Empowering Nurses Through Education: Reducing Burnout, Building Leadership, and Elevating Care 37:13

11 weeks ago37:13

37:13

How can continuing education transform nursing practice, reduce burnout, and empower nurses to advocate for themselves? Nurses are essential to patient care, yet many struggle with limited access to high-quality education, workplace advocacy, and professional development. As CME professionals and medical writers, we have the power to create learning experiences that not only enhance clinical skills but also support nurse well-being and retention. In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of nursing education with Drs. Jennifer Shepard and Sean DeGarmo, two leaders from the American Nurses Association (ANA), who explore how we can design more impactful, outcomes-driven education for nurses. Discover how the 2025 Code of Ethics for Nurses is reshaping professional development and why it matters for your CME programs. Learn how continuing education directly combats burnout and improves nurse retention—and what that means for healthcare organizations. Gain insights into the challenges of funding and implementing nurse education, and strategies to advocate for protected education budgets. Press play now to learn how you can contribute to the future of nursing education and design CE programs that truly make a difference! Abbreviations Here are the acronyms mentioned in the episode along with their full forms: ANA – American Nurses Association CNE – Continuing Nursing Education CMS – Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services CE – Continuing Education CME – Continuing Medical Education APP – Advanced Practice Provider DNP – Doctor of Nursing Practice PPE – Personal Protective Equipment PHI – Protected Health Information PI – Personal Information LACE – Licensure, Accreditation, Certification, and Education GME – Graduate Medical Education OPP – Organizational Practice Policies AAPA – American Academy of Physician Associates LACE – Licensure, Accreditation, Certification, and Education Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Nursing Education Challenges 00:40 Meet the Experts: Dr. Jennifer Shepard and Dr. Sean de Garmo 01:54 The 2025 Code of Ethics for Nurses 08:02 Addressing Gaps in Nursing Education 10:41 The Importance of Continuing Education in Combating Burnout 16:40 Advocating for Nursing Education and Professional Development 24:04 Outcomes-Based Education and Interdisciplinary Collaboration 34:50 Conclusion: The Lifeline of Continuing Education…

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Missing Data? How to Keep Your CME Content Evidence-Based 13:08

12 weeks ago13:08

13:08

What happens when the data you rely on for CME content suddenly disappears? CME depends on credible, transparent data to inform healthcare professionals and improve patient outcomes. But new policy shifts have restricted access to essential sources, leaving medical writers scrambling for alternatives. Without these data points, how can we continue producing accurate, impactful education? This episode explores how to navigate these challenges and source reliable evidence for CME content. Tune in to learn where to find alternative, credible health data sources beyond federal agencies. Don’t let disappearing data derail your CME planning. Resource Grab your link to a living spreadsheet of alternative data and evidence sources. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: The Challenge of Disappearing Public Health Data 01:20 Impact of Data Removal on Public Health 05:40 Alternative Data Sources for CME Professionals 09:33 Actionable Steps for CME Professionals 10:52 Conclusion and Call to Action…

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Follow the Money: The Unexpected Economics of CME 14:48

13 weeks ago14:48

14:48

Is private equity's growing influence in continuing medical education changing the quality of learning in the health professions? As a CME professional, you need to navigate an increasingly complex funding landscape where commercial support has dropped, and private equity firms are rapidly acquiring education providers. Understanding these shifts is crucial for developing sustainable, high-quality educational programs and navigating your way as a CME professional. In this episode, we’ll explore: How CME funding has evolved from primarily university-based to a complex mix of commercial support, registration fees, and private investment Why private equity firms are acquiring CME providers and what this means for content development Key strategies for maintaining educational quality and professional relationships in an environment of frequent mergers and acquisitions Listen now to gain insights into the $4.23 billion CME industry's funding transformation and position yourself for success in this rapidly changing landscape. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: The Art of Hustling Pool and CME 00:54 AI Bootcamp for Medical Writers 01:32 The Complex Financial Side of CME 02:06 Evolution of CME Funding 02:42 Pharmaceutical Influence and Regulations 05:47 The Impact of Compliance and Regulatory Codes 07:06 Current CME Funding Landscape 08:21 Private Equity in CME 10:48 Challenges and Questions for CME Professionals 12:08 Conclusion: Ensuring Educational Quality Resources Ratnasekera A, Impact of private equity on graduate medical education: A slippery slope. Am J Surg . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjsurg.2024.116160 ACCME's Standards for Integrity and Independence in Continuing Education (2020) ACCME Data Report. Thriving Through Growth and Innovation—2023 . ACCME. Toolkit for the Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education…

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AI, Art & Social Networks in Continuing Education for Health Professionals 19:25

14 weeks ago19:25

19:25

What if everything we believe about driving change in healthcare education is fundamentally wrong - and AI might be making it worse? As healthcare education rapidly embraces AI and digital transformation, you're likely grappling with crucial decisions about how to integrate new technologies while ensuring your programs remain equitable and effective. The latest Alliance for Continuing Education in Health Professions conference keynotes reveal surprising insights about AI bias, observation skills, and behavior change that challenge conventional approaches to CME program design. • Discover concrete strategies to identify and address AI bias in your educational programs, including a practical checklist for evaluating AI integration in healthcare education • Learn how art history methods can dramatically improve clinical observation skills through specific techniques like "close looking" and formal analysis • Master the science of "complex contagion" to design more effective peer learning networks, backed by new research showing networked physician groups make significantly fewer diagnostic errors Listen now to transform your CME programs with evidence-based insights from Dr. Immani Shephard, Dr. Siobhan Conaty, and Dr. Damon Centola on AI ethics, clinical observation, and driving meaningful change in healthcare education. Resources Glickman, M., Sharot, T. How human–AI feedback loops alter human perceptual, emotional and social judgements. Nat Hum Behav (2024).…

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Don't Be Kodak: Future-Proofing Your CME Strategy 17:40

17 weeks ago17:40

17:40

In this episode of Write Medicine, I speak with Ginny Jacobs, Principal of Quality Catalyst Group, about the necessary disruption happening in continuing medical education (CME). Drawing from her recent co-authored Almanac article, Ginny discusses four major shifts in the field and what they mean for CME professionals. Four Major Shifts in CME: Increased use of technology, including artificial intelligence Evolution in the science of learning and cognitive load Technology utilization for clinical practice relevance Development of adaptive and collaborative models across disciplines Key Takeaways: Data collection and analysis remain significant challenges for many CME organizations The importance of "unlearning" outdated approaches while maintaining what works Strategic alignment with organizational priorities is crucial for success The field must evolve from episodic learning to sustainable, data-driven approaches Looking Ahead: Need for more systematic professional development in CME Importance of collaboration to avoid common challenges Focus on creating nimble educational systems with robust assessment Emphasis on critical thinking and practical application Resources Jacobs G, McGowan B, Paynter N, et al. Necessary Disruption 2.0: A Continuing Education Call to Action. Alliance Almanac . Nov 18, 2024. Alliance Annual Conference , January 8-11, Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando, FL.…

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Future-Proofing Your CME Writing Biz: Preparing for 2025 27:18

17 weeks ago27:18