Introducing Rahmeka Cox Fort: From Miss New York to Clinical Research and Patient Advocate

Bridging Tech and Trials: Innovations in Clinical Research with Dr. Lestter Cruz Serrano

Send us a text message with topics, questions, or comments! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2302848/open_sms] In this episode of TrialTalks, host Naomi Tapia sits down with Dr. Lestter Cruz Serrano, an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience spanning life sciences, pharma, biotech, and clinical research organizations. Dr. Cruz, currently leading medical affairs strategy at Cognizant, shares his journey from being a physician in a clinical setting to pioneering technological innovations in clinical research. Dr. Cruz discusses the development and success of the Share Investigator Platform, an open SaaS solution transforming clinical trial processes across over 100 countries. He delves into the challenges and triumphs of integrating technology in a traditionally paper-based industry, emphasizing the importance of system interoperability and site engagement. Listeners will gain insights into how Cognizant's technology is enhancing efficiencies, improving communication between sites and sponsors, and paving the way for future innovations like AI and machine learning in clinical trials. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of healthcare, technology, and clinical research. The views expressed in the podcast is solely that of the individual and does not necessarily reflect the views of the individual’s employer. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2302848/support]

Exploring Medical Information with Nathan Nguyen, PharmD

Send us a text message with topics, questions, or comments! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2302848/open_sms] In this episode, Naomi welcomes Nathan Nguyen, a seasoned PharmD with a decade of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, specializing in medical information. Nathan is passionate about transforming complex medical knowledge into accessible, actionable insights and guiding others to achieve their professional goals. Episode Highlights: * Introduction to Nathan Nguyen: Nathan shares his journey from a pharmacist intern to his current role as an Associate Director of Medical Information at Eversana, highlighting key experiences that have shaped his career. * Role of Medical Affairs: Nathan explains the critical functions of medical affairs and how it serves as a bridge between clinical practice and research, differentiating it from regulatory affairs and clinical operations. * Career Progression: Insights into Nathan’s career progression, starting from an internship in a medical information contact center to taking on project lead roles and eventually becoming an associate director. * Technology in Medical Information: Discussion on how emerging technologies, including AI and chatbots, are transforming the medical information landscape and the importance of keeping up with these advancements. * Cross-Functional Collaboration: Nathan discusses the collaboration between medical information teams and other departments such as regulatory, pharmacovigilance, and clinical development within CROs. * Patient Advocacy: How Nathan ensures patient advocacy is maintained throughout the clinical trial process and post-marketing stages. * Challenges in CROs: Nathan shares the biggest challenges he has encountered while managing medical information services across various life sciences organizations within a CRO. * Future Trends: Emerging trends in medical information and medical affairs, particularly the role of technology and regulatory considerations. * Advice for Aspiring Professionals: Nathan offers valuable advice for individuals aspiring to enter the medical information field, emphasizing the importance of understanding the regulatory landscape and networking. Connect with Nathan Nguyen: - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathannguyen414 - Newsletter: https://medinfoacademy.ck.page/profile Thank you for tuning in to this insightful episode of TrialTalks. Stay connected with us for more discussions like this. Subscribe to our podcast and leave a review! Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2302848/support]

Outliving It: Katie Ortman Doble's Journey of Survival and Advocacy in Clinical Trials

Send us a text message with topics, questions, or comments! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2302848/open_sms] Join us in this powerful episode as we sit down with Katie Ortman Doble, a stage 4 cancer survivor, writer, speaker, and passionate advocate for clinical trials. Katie shares her incredible journey from her diagnosis with a rare form of melanoma to navigating treatment options and ultimately becoming a beacon of hope for others. Discover how her father's medical background and relentless determination played a crucial role in her survival, and learn about the strategic importance of clinical trials in cancer treatment. Katie's story is not just about battling cancer but also about the importance of patient advocacy, the need for better education on clinical trials, and the strength found in community support. Her experiences offer valuable insights into the world of clinical research and highlight the critical role it plays in saving lives. Tune in to hear Katie’s inspiring tale of resilience, her advocacy work, and the importance of making clinical trials a part of every patient’s treatment plan. Katie, who currently heads Creative and General Staffing Operations at IQ Clarity, also writes a blog called FutureHappySelf.com, where she shares her journey and offers advice to others. She volunteers for First Descents, a non-profit providing adventure-based healing for young adults with cancer. Katie’s advocacy and writing have earned her numerous accolades, including the Courage Award from the Melanoma Research Foundation and the Out Living It Award from First Descents. She has also shared her experiences in a feature on Huffington Post and was highlighted on NPR's Hidden Brain Podcast in the My Unsung Hero segment. Don't miss this episode filled with hope, determination, and invaluable advice for anyone facing similar battles.  HuffPost article: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/doctor-cancer-clinical-trials-advocacy_n_646515dbe4b0bfd6447f88df Additional features and blog links: https://www.liinks.co/katiedoble ~~ Visit our website at trialtalksinc.com for more information and to check out our new merchandise! Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2302848/support]

Empowering Voices: Aundria Littlejohn on Patient Advocacy, Mentorship, and Maternal Health

Send us a text message with topics, questions, or comments! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2302848/open_sms] In this episode, join Naomi and Rahmeka as they welcome the inspiring Aundria Littlejohn, associate manager at Coach and top Miss New York 2024 contestant. Aundria delves into her unique journey from retail to her current role, driven by her passion for patient advocacy, maternal health, and mentorship. Discover how she champions for underrepresented communities, the pivotal moments that shaped her path, and her innovative initiatives like Copy Genius and Health In Her Hue. Aundria's story is a powerful testament to resilience, community, and the impact of effective mentorship. Don't miss this empowering conversation! Highlights: - Aundria's Career Journey: From part-time retail to associate manager at Coach. - Mentorship Impact: How mentors guided Aundria and how she mentors others. - Patient Advocacy: Aundria's dedication to improving maternal health and patient care for underrepresented communities. - Copy Genius: An innovative take on mentorship that accelerates personal and professional growth. - Health In Her Hue: Connecting Black and Brown women with culturally competent healthcare providers. - Future Goals: Aundria's ambition to attend law school and advocate for healthcare policy changes on Capitol Hill. ~~ Visit our website at trialtalksinc.com for more information and to check out our new merchandise! Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2302848/support]

Introducing Rahmeka Cox Fort: From Miss New York to Clinical Research and Patient Advocate

Send us a text message with topics, questions, or comments! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2302848/open_sms] Join Naomi Tapia and her new co-host Rahmeka Cox Fort for an enlightening episode of TrialTalks Inc.! In this engaging discussion, they dive into the clinical research industry, sharing personal stories and professional insights. Rahmeka recounts her journey from a personal experience with chronic kidney disease in her family to her impactful career in epidemiology and public health. Together, they explore the importance of patient advocacy, cultural competency in clinical trials, and the need for reeducation to enhance patient participation. Tune in to hear about Rahmeka’s inspiring Miss New York experience, the significance of internships, and their plans for future collaborations. This episode is packed with valuable information and heartfelt stories that underscore the human side of clinical research. Don’t miss it!  Highlights: - Rahmeka Fort's personal and professional journey - The role of patient advocacy and community engagement - Insights into clinical research and the importance of cultural competency - Experiences from the Miss New York pageant and its impact on public health advocacy - The value of internships in building a career in clinical research Visit www.trialtalksinc.com for more information and to check out our new merchandise! Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2302848/support]