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STAT's "First Opinion" Podcast Gets a Fresh Start

The "First Opinion" podcast by STAT is returning for a highly anticipated new season packed with discussions that delve into the pressing issues within the life sciences realm. Scheduled to air weekly, this season promises an array of engaging conversations featuring distinguished guests from various sectors including politicians, health care professionals, and acclaimed journalists. As part of an initiative to foster deeper understanding of critical health topics, listeners can expect to hear from renowned personalities who are shaping conversations around health today.

Rick Berke, co-founder and executive editor of STAT, stated, “Our First Opinion platform has grown into a key venue for moving essays that resonate, whether they originate from patients, global health leaders, or members of Congress. Through the provocative nature of our First Opinion podcast, we aim to bring these voices to life.”

This season is set to feature a remarkable line-up of guests including:

• - Carl Zimmer, an award-winning author and columnist, who will discuss his latest book, Airborne: The Hidden History of the Life We Breathe.
• - Medical professionals Faith Crittenden and Jared Boyce, who will explore the ongoing workforce crisis in the field of pediatrics.
• - Dr. Ted Johnson from Emory University School of Medicine, who will share insights on utilizing improvisational techniques to better connect with Alzheimer’s patients.
• - Neurosurgeon Vijay Agarwal of Montefiore Medical Center, recognized for his work featured on HBO’s Severance.
• - Meghan Davis, a veterinarian and epidemiologist from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, providing expertise on the relationship between cats and bird flu.

Torie Bosch, editor of the "First Opinion" segment, emphasized the podcast’s intent to invite those who influence medicine to share their candid thoughts with a diverse audience, ranging from biotech executives to patients. She noted, “As the listener's voice, I aim to ask the questions that probe deeper into the complexities of these issues, which often get simplified into straightforward narratives. At a time filled with polarization, conversation stands as one of our most effective tools.”

Listeners can subscribe to the "First Opinion" podcast on major platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify to stay informed about significant topics impacting health and wellness.

In addition, the podcast has a complementary newsletter available weekly on Sundays. The newsletter includes first-person essays authored by patients, biotech executives, and social media figures, further enriching the ongoing dialogue.

About STAT

Founded in 2015, STAT has established itself as a leading media company focused on insightful journalism related to life sciences. Reaching over 8 million visitors monthly, it delivers comprehensive coverage from academic labs, biotech boardrooms, and political settings. STAT doesn't shy away from scrutinizing the scientific discoveries and corporate strategies that are vital to public health. With an award-winning team, the outlet has received numerous accolades, including being a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize on two occasions, showcasing its dedication to excellence in medical journalism.

Operating primarily from Boston, STAT also has correspondents positioned in key cities including Washington, D.C., New York, and Los Angeles, ensuring a broad reach for timely reporting. Its commitment to quality journalism continues to shine through as it brings vital insights into the evolving landscape of health and life sciences.

For more information about the podcast and to listen to the latest episodes, visit the STAT website.

Stay tuned for more exciting content from "First Opinion" and be part of the conversation that shapes our understanding of health complexities today.