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Ben discusses living with stage IV colorectal cancer, noting fluctuating wellbeing and chemotherapy side effects including pain, nausea, fatigue, itchy skin, brittle nails, and poor appetite. He mentions infusion logistics, new pains and temperature swings, as well as anxiety about his PET scan. He observes minor changes in tumor and thyroid SUV values and plans to review these with his oncologist. Ben recommends Colontown for peer support and acknowledges recent losses in his community. 00:00 Welcome and Gratitude 00:46 Up and Down Health 02:02 Too Much to Say 03:31 Humor and Sports Talk 06:14 Time Travel Thoughts 08:21 Facing Death and Grief 09:34 Chemo Routine Update 12:33 PET Scan Anxiety 14:23 Mystery Pains and Symptoms 18:45 Planning Life Anyway 22:27 Travel Dreams and Politics 26:04 Reading PET Results Early 29:16 Wrap Up and Colontown 29:31 Final Reflections on Loss Visit Colontown! https://colontown.org Join the Conversation! If you or someone you know is living with cancer, share your experiences and thoughts in the comments! Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.

Ben talks with Birgit Poniatowski, the Executive Director of the International AIDS Society (IAS), about the role of professional associations in the HIV movement and IAS’s convening power. Poniatowski describes IAS’s origins in 1988, its 13,000-member multidisciplinary base including people living with HIV, and its three main conferences: the IAS Conference on HIV Science (odd years), the International AIDS Conference (even years), and HIV Research for Prevention. They discuss why the International AIDS Conference remains vital amid abrupt funding cuts and shifting donor priorities, the limits and value of hybrid/virtual formats, and plans for AIDS 2026 in Rio with the theme “Rethink, Rebuild, Rise,” emphasizing rebuilding systems for long-term realities, financing and equity, and a broad prevention toolbox. Poniatowski also outlines IAS governance changes to embed community decision-making, priorities “2026 onwards,” youth leadership programs, her career path, and how to engage via the IAS website and volunteering. For more information visit https://www.iasociety.org/ Stephanie Nolan’s article on the state of negotiations between the US and Zambia. https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/16/health/zambia-hiv-aid-minerals-trump.html 00:00 Welcome and Setup 01:08 What Is the IAS 03:01 IAS Conferences Overview 05:25 Why the Big Conference Matters 08:01 Are Conferences Worth It 10:20 Hybrid and Virtual Access 13:47 AIDS 2026 Theme 15:07 Donor Politics and MOUs 21:22 Rio Program Priorities 23:44 US Reliance and Europe 26:41 Reforming IAS Governance 30:06 Rebuild and New Leadership 35:22 Bergit's Career Journey 38:05 Music and Final Reflections 40:12 How to Get Involved 41:53 Closing Thanks and Subscribe

Welcome to a new episode of 'Colon, Meet Cancer' from A Shot in the Arm Media. In this first episode of 2026, Ben shares his experiences of treatment side effects while living with stage four colorectal cancer, and how these impact his ability to live as near a normal life as possible. Also covered are unexpected complications like clostridioides difficile and pulmonary embolism, which had Ben hospitalized in December 2025. He also reflects on his interactions with medical staff, including the invaluable support from nurses, and discusses his thoughts on resilience, the future, and living beyond the diagnosis. Join Ben as he candidly narrates his personal cancer journey and hopes for the year ahead. 00:00 Introduction and Diagnosis 01:08 Coping with Chemotherapy 03:06 Maintenance Therapy Explained 06:41 Hospitalization and Complications 09:33 Reflections on Healthcare and Diversity 12:21 Christmas Reflections 14:16 Living with Uncertainty 17:27 Looking Ahead to 2026 Join the Conversation! If you or someone you know is living with cancer, share your experiences and thoughts in the comments! Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.

In this powerful episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, host Ben Plumley discusses the state of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States under a hostile federal government with Dr. Tatyana Moaton, the Director of Strategic Innovation and Partnership at the San Francisco Community Health Center. Dr. Moaton unpacks the systemic challenges faced by the trans community, healthcare disparities, the significant threats posed by current federal policies, and the urgent need for advocacy and coalition building. Dr. Moaton's insights and lived experiences highlight the relentless fight for trans rights, healthcare equity, and the importance of acknowledging humanity in healthcare decisions. Join us for an eye-opening conversation about innovation, equity, and the resilience required to confront these pressing social issues. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic 01:21 Personal Disclosure and Health Update 02:13 Introducing Dr. Tatyana Moaton 03:02 Dr. Moaton's Background and Journey 04:43 San Francisco Community Health Center's Mission 07:13 Trans Thrive Program and Services 10:03 Challenges Faced by Trans Communities 25:27 Violence Against Trans Women 26:42 Systematic Erasure and Advocacy 29:43 Contradictions in Gender Affirming Care 33:06 A Harrowing Story from the Ballroom Community 33:51 The Impact of Federal Policies on Trans Services 36:57 Executive Orders and Community Health Center's Response 37:50 Navigating Federal Funding Restrictions 39:03 The Importance of Gender Affirming Care 40:57 Challenges and Misconceptions Around Trans Rights 53:19 ICE and Immigration Issues 57:09 The Fight for Trans Rights and Community Support 01:02:38 Call to Action and Conclusion Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Visit and Support the San Francisco Community Health Center https://www.sfcommunityhealth.org https://www.facebook.com/SFCommunityHealth https://www.instagram.com/sfcommunityhealth https://youtube.com/@sfcommunityhealth https://bsky.app/profile/sfcommunityhealth.bsky.social https://www.linkedin.com/company/1387878 Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.

In this special World AIDS Day episode, Emily Bass and Ben Plumley delve into the current and future state of the global AIDS response. Join them as they discuss the rise of Emily's influential Substack, the impact of recent US administration policies, and the essential roles played by organizations like UNAIDS. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in the fight against HIV/AIDS, with a particular focus on country-driven initiatives and the need for sustainable, equitable solutions. With special mentions of groundbreaking biomedical advances, crucial data collection, and the evolving landscape of global health governance, this episode is a must-listen for anyone engaged in or passionate about global health advocacy. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:21 World AIDS Day Podcast Overview 00:51 Emily Bass' Substack and Its Impact 01:47 US Government's Role in AIDS Response 04:51 Challenges and Frustrations with Substack 05:49 Global Health Agreements and Specimen Sharing 10:39 Pan-African Leadership in Health 18:18 US Administration's Health Policies 35:20 America's Prioritization in Vaccine Distribution 36:02 Financial Implications of Vaccine Pricing 36:38 Multilateral vs. Unilateral Approaches 37:33 Concerns Over Bilateral Agreements 40:23 Global Fund Replenishment and Commitments 42:34 Challenges in Global Health Leadership 52:36 The Role of UNAIDS in Global Health 01:06:57 Reflections and Future Directions 01:10:28 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.

In this episode of 'A Shot in The Arm Podcast,' host Ben Plumley reconnects with his longtime friend and colleague, Andy Seale from the World Health Organization. The conversation spans decades of their personal and professional journeys across global health, with a primary focus on HIV, TB, and malaria. Ben and Andy discuss the challenges and triumphs of their work, including Andy's experience with HIV diagnosis and the global fight against pandemics such as Ebola. They also tackle critical issues like WHO’s evolving role in global health, the impacts of reduced funding, and the necessity for integration with broader policy fields like security and economics. The transcript also reveals Andy as an enthusiastic fan of Taylor Swift, humorously contrasting with Ben’s musical preferences. The episode highlights past collaborations, current challenges, and the future of global health in an unpredictable geopolitical landscape. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Update 01:43 A Special Guest: Andy Seale 02:42 The ERAS Tour: Reflecting on the Past 04:08 Growing Up During the HIV Epidemic 05:31 Early Careers and Professional Crossroads 09:48 Community and Personal Impact of HIV 20:53 Transition to Global Health Initiatives 23:54 Responding to Health Emergencies 29:51 The Role of Media and Communication 37:05 The Massive Effort and Global Fund 41:33 A Murder Mystery at the UN 42:29 Golden Era of Epidemic Responses 42:55 Roles and Contributions in UNAIDS and Global Fund 44:21 Challenges and Changes in Global Health 45:36 Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Strategy 47:03 Integration and Sustainability in Health Services 51:19 Reflections on Global Health and WHO's Role 56:56 The Future of Global Health and Security 01:17:30 Concluding Thoughts and Optimism Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Ben's Colon, Meet Cancer Podcast https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW7yagTEtywrzqAXsYp8gYw3LJpjcnnSB Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.

In this episode Ben Plumley catches up with Dr. Seth Berkley, founder of the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, former CEO of GAVI and amongst other responsibilities, now a senior advisor at Brown University's School of Public Health's Pandemic Center. Seth has recently published a new book “Fair Doses: An Insider's Story of the Pandemic and the Global Fight for Vaccine Equity” and he and Ben discuss the book’s topics of vaccine equity, misinformation, and the rapid innovations in vaccine development, particularly the success and future potential of mRNA vaccines. Dr. Berkley highlights the challenges posed by misinformation and the political landscape, as well as the importance of global collaboration in addressing pandemics. They also explore his defining role in Covax's efforts to distribute COVID vaccines, the need for local manufacturing, and the impacts of nationalistic policies on global health. Dr. Berkley stresses the critical role of ongoing innovation and funding in preparing for future health crises and ensuring equitable access to health technologies. And he pulls no punches on the current US administration’s failures in supporting global health research and partnerships. https://www.ucpress.edu/books/fair-doses/hardcover 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:05 Current State of Misinformation and Disinformation 03:56 Challenges in Public Health Communication 09:19 Reflections on COVID-19 and Vaccine Equity 12:44 Global Health and Future Pandemics 16:41 Vaccine Nationalism and Local Manufacturing 23:38 Preparedness for Future Health Threats 31:01 The Future of Clinical Research and Innovation 36:03 Seth Berkeley's Current Work and Future Plans 38:13 Conclusion and Closing Remarks Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Read Emily Bass’ Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Check Out Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health.

Ben’s journey of battling stage four colorectal cancer with chemotherapy brings him to a fairly predictable pit stop; what significance does faith have in spiritual and physical care? , Whether its unravelling deeper issues of self-acceptance and self-faith., the episode explores faith from various perspectives, including personal conviction and religious doctrine, questioning the existence of an all-powerful, all-knowing God amidst the presence of widespread suffering. The psychological and spiritual impacts of cancer treatment are discussed, including the what may be a gradual transition from atheism to an almost agnostic faith as a coping mechanism. The episode concludes with an update on treatment progress and a contemplation on the broader implications of faith, love, and legacy. This wee’s t shirt is from St. Javelin, a Ukrainian-based clothier. Find out more about them at www.saintjavelin.com 00:00 Introduction: The Journey of Faith 00:17 A Lunch With A Pop Star Gone Awry 03:47 Reflections on Faith and Self-Esteem 04:51 Chemotherapy Update 06:23 Exploring the Concept of Faith 08:30 Faith in the Context of Cancer 10:33 Religious Perspectives on Faith 19:30 Personal Reflections and Legacy 22:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 💬 Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

In this episode of 'Colon Meet Cancer,' Ben recounts the surprising success story of Henrik Gretzky's Symphony Number Three, how badly it was initially received by the musicology world and draws a surprising parallel to his chemotherapy journey. He shares the complex experience of managing an increasing range of chemo side effects, including white blood cell treatments, pain, and hair loss. Ben candidly discusses his struggles with memory fog, the challenges it brings, and the ensuing emotional toll manifested as depression and self-reflection. Despite the adversities, he highlights the importance of humor, intellectual stimulation, and staying hopeful. One of the tools he has used has been late night reflections on controversial topics, and he closes out the episode with Ben by sharing one of those midnight reflections - the potential risks and benefits of AI in healthcare. This week's t-shirt, gifted by Andy Seale, features the slogan 'Make America Democratic Again.' 00:00 Introduction: A Surprising Symphony 02:53 The Onset of Chemotherapy 04:37 Managing Side Effects 10:13 Chemo Brain and Memory Fog 14:59 Depression and Self-Reflection 18:45 AI and Its Implications 23:35 Humor as a Coping Mechanism 25:32 Conclusion: Gratitude and Hope Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Subscribe & Stay Updated! Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

It’s a Paul Revere moment, “RFK Junior is coming!” Ben is joined by author and journalist Emily Bass and UCSF Professor Eric Goosby, co-host of the Global Health Diplomats podcast to diagnose and propose solutions to the Trump Administration’s assault on US public health. From the hollowing out of the CDC, to vaccine skepticism at the heart of the federal leadership, and savage, unconstitutional cuts to public health home and abroad, they delve into the broader ramifications of these attacks on scientific integrity, US democracy and security. They round upon what could be profoundly damaging political consequences, particularly for Republicans, if the health of their voters’ children and elderly relatives is put directly at risk by this willful dismantling of US public health services. And in conclusion, Ben, Eric and Emily explore how to support the emerging regional health coalitions of states, cities and professional bodies to fill the gap. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:50 Recent Developments in Global Health 02:08 Legal Challenges and Public Health Implications 03:18 Impact on Democracy and Public Health 12:04 Interview with Eric Goosby 14:27 Concerns About CDC and Public Health Surveillance 19:36 Future of Public Health and Science 34:46 Potential Solutions and Local Efforts 39:09 Coalitions and Surveillance Systems 44:23 Challenges in Public Health Funding 48:24 The Role of Philanthropy in Public Health 50:37 Political Ramifications and Public Health 56:22 Vaccine Misinformation and Public Trust 58:27 Accountability in Public Health Leadership 01:04:33 COVID Variants and Vaccination Strategies 01:10:27 Final Thoughts and Reflections Emily’s Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, host Ben Plumley engages in a comprehensive discussion with journalist and author Emily Bass about the current state of global health, specifically focusing on HIV/AIDS. Recorded in sunny Sacramento, they reflect on the extraordinary events of the past few months and assess the alignment of innovation and equity in global health. Their conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the importance of community-based care and accountability, the evolving role of international NGOs, and the critical nature of differentiated service delivery in HIV treatment. They also discuss the geopolitical uncertainties affecting global health funding and the influence of recent political changes in the US on the future of the global HIV response. They touch upon the significant role of entities like PEPFAR, the Global Fund, and UNAIDS, and the necessity for national contributions and regional procurement in sustaining HIV programs. Emily emphasizes the need to preserve community-based accountability and the value of innovative, country-led solutions for delivering healthcare. They conclude with a commitment to delve deeper into HIV prevention in a future episode, recognizing the ongoing challenges and opportunities in achieving global HIV/AIDS objectives. Emily’s book: To End a Plague: America's Fight to Defeat AIDS in Africa https://www.amazon.com/End-Plague-Americas-Defeat-Africa/dp/1541762436 Emily’s recent essay in the New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/14/opinion/pepfar-hiv-foreign-aid.html Emily’s Substack: https://substack.com/@emilysbass Ben’s Substack: https://substack.com/@benplumley1 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:36 Guest Introduction: Emily's Expertise 02:26 Global Health Check-In 03:11 Humanitarian Crises and HIV 05:00 Impact of Global Health Policies 06:44 HIV Treatment Challenges 08:57 Sustainability and Ownership in HIV Response 12:47 Global Health Architecture and Funding 16:33 The Role of PEPFAR and Global Fund 22:25 Future of Global Health Initiatives 38:25 Global Fund's Role in Procurement and National Contributions 40:33 US Congress and Global Health Budget 42:15 Innovation in Global AIDS Response 49:30 The Importance of Differentiated Service Delivery 01:00:58 Community Accountability in Public Health 01:09:38 Challenges and Future of HIV Prevention Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

As Ben starts his first chemotherapy cycle, he explores the controversial yet essential role of chemotherapy in cancer treatment. He looks at its historical roots and tries to understand the scientific mechanisms of various chemotherapies. He shares an intimate look at the highs and lows of his first cycle of treatment, the importance of comprehensive, multidisciplinary care, as well as the physical and emotional aspects of cancer therapy. Ben’s t-shirt this week celebrates the Ukrainian Alliance for Public Health. You can find out more about the Alliance and how you can help at https://aph.org.ua/en/home 00:00 Introduction and Preface 00:45 The Origins of Chemotherapy 02:33 Personal Experience with Chemotherapy 04:30 The Chemotherapy Process 07:25 Side Effects and Challenges 11:15 Living with Chemotherapy 17:25 Understanding Chemotherapy 22:16 The Vagal Response Incident 28:20 Conclusion and Acknowledgements 💬 Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

Ben and Yvette catch up with Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, as the joint UN program on HIV and AIDS launched a global AIDS update report entitled “AIDS, crisis and the power to transform”. They explore what levers are left to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, including ending AIDS as a public health crisis by 2030, the continuing relevance of UNAIDS to lead the world’s response to one of the greatest zoonotic infections of the 21st century, and what the real trajectory of an epidemic that even a year ago seemed entering its last mile. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:54 Introducing the Guest: Winnie Byanyima 01:23 UNAIDS Report Highlights 06:37 Community Leadership and Challenges 15:02 Integration and Health Systems 30:18 Decolonizing Health Systems 32:56 Fast Tracking African Market Integration 34:08 UN's Own Story and Decolonization 35:37 Youth Perspectives on Decolonization 38:06 Global Solidarity and Economic Injustices 44:01 Immediate Actions for Health Crisis 47:58 UNAIDS' Future Vision and Challenges 57:30 Call to Action and Closing Remarks 💬 Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, host Ben Plumley discusses the Kigali International AIDS Society Conference with guests Solange Baptiste from ITPC and Rosemary Mburu from WACI Health. They explore the importance of community voices in global health innovations, the challenges of funding cuts, and the significance of long-acting antiretroviral therapies. Additionally, they touch upon the roles of UNAIDS and the Global Fund, advanced HIV disease, and the critical need for prioritizing global health and HIV funding. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:16 Kigali International AIDS Society Conference Overview 00:40 Community Involvement and Clinical Trials 00:51 Introducing the Guests: Solange Baptiste and Rosemary Mburu 02:13 Discussion on the Kigali AIDS Conference 04:48 Challenges and Strategies in Global Health Funding 11:32 Community Leadership and Global Health Architecture 14:54 UNAIDS and Global Fund Presence at the Conference 26:00 Scientific Innovations and Long-Acting Treatments 31:59 Integration and Efficiency in Global Health 35:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 💬 Join the Conversation! How do you see the future of global health unfolding? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated: Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast

Ben delves into the multifaceted experience of pain, beginning with a literary reference from Margaret Atwood. He shares personal anecdotes about blood draws, the insertion of a chemotherapy port, and the challenges of effectively communicating pain levels to healthcare professionals. Ben reflects on his nearly forty years’ experience living with Crohn's disease, exploring different ways to describe pain, and examines various strategies for pain management, including medications like acetaminophen and oxycodone, and the antidepressant duloxetine. The episode also highlights historical and cultural contexts of pain and invites listeners to contribute to a virtual medicine cabinet of motivational and entertaining resources. 00:00 Introduction and Literary Preface 01:34 Personal Anecdotes and Blood Tests 02:08 Chemotherapy Port Installation 05:31 Experiencing and Describing Pain 13:38 Pain Management Strategies 18:25 Upcoming Chemotherapy and Final Thoughts https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/pain 💬 Join the Conversation How should people share their experiences of life-threatening disease? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🔔Subscribe & Stay Updated Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform. Watch on YouTube & subscribe for more in-depth global health discussions: www.youtube.com/@shotarmpodcast