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

Marla DaltonNFID 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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Operation Warp Speed: Transforming Disease Prevention

Operation Warp Speed: Transforming Disease Prevention with Peter Marks, MD, PhD

S2, E4: Peter Marks, MD, PhD, shares insights on the origin of Operation Warp Speed during the COVID-19 pandemic and his thoughts on how AI can improve disease prevention …

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A Career Dedicated to Protecting Pregnant Mothers and Infants

A Career Dedicated to Protecting Pregnant Mothers and Infants with Carol J. Baker, MD

S2, E3: Carol J. Baker, MD, shares her perspectives on the most significant changes throughout her career, including the development of vaccines and antivirals as well as the inclusion of pregnant women in clinical trials for vaccines and drugs …

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From HIV/AIDs to COVID-19: Insights and Predictions

From HIV/AIDs to COVID-19: Insights and Predictions with Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH

S2, E2: Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, shares her perspectives on the most significant changes she has seen throughout her career, the importance of rebuilding trust in government agencies, and predictions for the upcoming respiratory season …

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From Early Days Farming to Pandemic Preparedness with Barney S. Graham, MD, PhD

From Early Days Farming to Pandemic Preparedness with Barney S. Graham, MD, PhD

S2, E1: Barney S. Graham, MD, PhD, discusses industry challenges, big scientific changes in recent years, big scientific changes, and his work to improve health equity …

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Infectious Ideas Podcast Teaser Image

Speaking Up For Science with Bruce G. Gellin, MD, MPH

S1, E12: Bruce G. Gellin, MD, MPH, was a source of science-based information about vaccines long before misinformation and disinformation became buzzwords

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Special Guest Richard E. Besser, MD on Infectious IDeas podcast

Achieving the Promise of Health Equity with Richard E. Besser, MD

S1, E11: Richard E. Besser, MD, is now a leading champion for health equity urging the US to embrace its potential and provide opportunities for all to thrive …

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Special Guest Katherine L O'Brien, MD, MPH on Infectious IDeas podcast

Championing Global Health Equity with Katherine L. O’Brien, MD, MPH

S1, E10: Katherine L. O’Brien, MD, MPH, discusses bringing communities around the world up to date on immunizations and creating an accord to improve the global response to the next pandemic …

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Special Guest Julie L Gerberding, MD, MPH on Infectious IDeas podcast

Breaking the Cycle of Crisis to Complacency with Julie L. Gerberding, MD, MPH

S1, E9: Julie L. Gerberding, MD, MPH, led the CDC through 40 public health crises, and now advocates for change to strengthen US health security and break the cycle of crisis to complacency …

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