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 doing 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 Dalton, PE, CAE, served as chief staff officer of NFID until her retirement in 2025. As co-host, she continues furthering the NFID mission to educate the public, communities, and healthcare professionals about infectious diseases across the lifespan. She is a Certified Association Executive, a registered professional engineer, and the mom of 2 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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Pharmacists on the Front Line of Prevention with Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, MPH
S2, E12: Jeffery A. Goad, PharmD, PhD, shares insights on the critical role pharmacies play in vaccination and travel medicine, and his top priorities as NFID President
A Leader for Global Health Equity—Seth F. Berkley, MD
S2, E11: Seth F. Berkley, MD, shares insights from his notable career, including his impactful work in Uganda rebuilding the immunization program and developing the national AIDS control program, his work with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and his trailblazing leadership of COVAX, which helped deliver more than 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines globally to 146 countries.
Leading through Uncertainty with Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH
S2, E10: Grace M. Lee, MD, MPH, who helped guide US vaccine policymaking during the turbulent times of the COVID-19 pandemic, shares insights into the complexities and challenges encountered, the importance of vaccine safety, and concerns that keep her awake at night …
Journey to Patient Advocate and Public Health Champion with Leana Wen, MD, MSc
S2, E9: Leana Wen, MD, MSc, shares her thoughts on addressing health disparities, improving health outcomes, and the untold health stories that deserve more attention …
Cracking the Code: Health Communication Insights with Céline Gounder, MD, ScM
S2, E8: Céline Gounder, MD, ScM, shares her insights on the importance of trust in public health communication, the fight against misinformation, and the future of infectious disease diagnostics …
Pandemics, Prevention, and Progress with Tom Frieden, MD, MPH
S2, E7: Tom Frieden, MD, MPH, explores his journey from philosophy to medicine and a distinguished career in public health, with a focus on building resilient communities …
Building Trust Through Transparency with Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH
S2, E6: Mandy K. Cohen, MD, MPH, shares her perspectives on rebuilding trust in public health agencies and what most keeps her awake at night …
Building Global Vaccine Confidence Through Diplomacy with Peter J. Hotez, MD, PhD
S2, E5: Peter J. Hotez, MD, PhD, shares insights from his influential career in vaccine science and diplomacy, from how the field has changed over time to what we can all be doing to help build vaccine confidence …