Ep 44 | The Contract MSL Route to Industry: One PharmD’s Path Out of Retail Pharmacy

Ep 44 | The Contract MSL Route to Industry: One PharmD’s Path Out of Retail Pharmacy

In this episode of MSL 411, host Linda Eskew sits down with Rupesh Patel, PharmD, to unpack one of the most realistic (and often misunderstood) pathways into Medical Affairs: the contract MSL role. Coming from a retail pharmacy background, Rupesh shares the challenges of breaking into industry, why most retail pharmacists struggle to make the transition, and what it actually takes to stand out. We dive into how contract MSL roles work, why they can be a powerful entry point, and how to leverage them into long-term career success. Along the way, Rupesh shares candid insights on networking, LinkedIn strategy, negotiation, and the mindset required to make the leap. If you’ve ever wondered whether breaking into Medical Affairs is possible from a nontraditional background, this episode is for you. Have feedback for us? Click here text to your hosts [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2350298/fan_mail/new] Connect with SEMbio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/sembio/] to continue the conversation!

Ep 43 | AI: Friend, Frenemy, or Field Partner?

AI isn’t coming to Medical Affairs - it’s already here. The real question is: are you using it… or avoiding it? In this episode of MSL 411, host Linda Eskew sits down with Nathaniel Boutté, PharmD, to break down what AI actually looks like in the day-to-day life of an MSL. From practical ways to save time to the gray areas around compliance and KOL trust, this conversation explores how to use AI effectively, without crossing the line. If you’ve been curious (or cautious) about where AI fits into your role, this episode will give you a clear, real-world perspective on how to start using it, and what to watch out for. #MSL411 #whatsthe411 #weareSEMbio #MedicalAffairs #MSL #MedicalScienceLiaison #RecruitingInsights #CareerDevelopment #CareerResources #AIinMedicalAffairs #Technology #techtalk Have feedback for us? Click here text to your hosts [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2350298/fan_mail/new] Connect with SEMbio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/sembio/] to continue the conversation!

Ep 42 | Navigating the MSL Journey Through Growth and Acquisition

What does a long-term career in Medical Affairs really look like? In this episode of MSL 411, host Linda Eskew sits down with Johnathan Pinkhasov, PharmD, MBA, to discuss breaking into the MSL role, evolving career expectations, and navigating change, including company acquisitions. Johnathan shares honest reflections on career pivots, self-investment, and lessons learned from nearly a decade in Medical Affairs. A must-listen for aspiring and current MSLs looking to build a resilient, intentional career in a constantly changing industry. Have feedback for us? Click here text to your hosts [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2350298/fan_mail/new] Connect with SEMbio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/sembio/] to continue the conversation!

Ep 41 | Bridging the Divide: How Commercial Experience Elevates the MSL Role

In this episode of MSL 411, host Linda Eskew has a conversation with Corey Hicks, PhD, a seasoned Medical Affairs professional whose path includes nearly two decades in commercial roles before transitioning into the medical side of the industry. Corey's unique vantage point across both functions gives him a rare ability to articulate the strengths, challenges, and opportunities built into each. Tune in as we explore what it truly looks like to cross from commercial into an MSL role, how those skill sets can complement each other, and why thoughtful collaboration between both sides is essential for impactful field work and meaningful scientific exchange. Have feedback for us? Click here text to your hosts [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2350298/fan_mail/new] Connect with SEMbio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/sembio/] to continue the conversation!

Ep 40 | The Continuum of Care: From Career to Calling

In this conversation of the MSL 411 podcast, host Linda Eskew is joined by Christian Hommes, a Physician Assistant turned Patient Diagnosis Liaison whose professional journey into Medical Affairs was inspired by his personal experience as a caregiver to his son, Silas, who lives with Angelman syndrome. This conversation explores how lived experience can shape a career in Medical Affairs, what the PDL role entails, and the power of empathy and advocacy in rare disease. For more information on rare diseases, rare disease research, or advocacy opportunities, please visit the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) at rarediseases.org. #MSL411 #whatsthe411 #weareSEMbio #MedicalAffairs #MSL #MedicalScienceLiaison #RecruitingInsights #CareerDevelopment #JobSeeking #JobSeekingTips #CareerResources #RareDisease #RareDiseaseAdvocacy #RareDiseaseAwareness #PassionToProfession Have feedback for us? Click here text to your hosts [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2350298/fan_mail/new] Connect with SEMbio on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/sembio/] to continue the conversation!