In this episode, meet a long-time partner of the PATIENTS Program, Daniel Frye. He is a leading advocate and policy expert for the blind and disabled communities. With decades of experience, Daniel has dedicated his life to giving voice to those who are often left out of public discourse and policy decisions. As The PATIENTS Program expands its national reach to engage the disability community better, Dan joins us to challenge stereotypes, demystify misconceptions about blindness and disability,...
Aug 12, 2025•52 min
This episode reunites the dynamic cast from ourgroundbreaking Hidden Heroes of Research series to dive deep into career growth in health research. Join us as they explore pivotal topics like career pivots, mentoring, and the art of networking to elevate your career journey. Whether you’re navigating the life sciences, law, or leadership, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stand out, thrive, and avoid burnout. Don't miss this empowering conversation! Visithttps://podcaste...
Jul 22, 2025•1 hr 12 min
Join us on The Bridge as we welcome Chris Blanchette, Vice President of Clinical Data Science and Evidence at NovoNordisk. Together, we explore how the PATIENTS Program’s Going National Initiative is reshaping the way pharmaceutical companies engage patients in research. The PATIENTS Going National Initiative is about sharing the PATIENTS Program’s recipe for evidence-based approach for patient and community engagement beyond Baltimore. Weplan to develop partnerships with new communities to repl...
Jul 08, 2025•23 min
Join us for an inspiring episode as the PATIENTS Program proudly introduces Anna and Jordan Rathkopf, a dynamic visual storytelling duo and one of our newest national community partners in the Going National Initiative. Anna and Jordan’s remarkable journey began in 2016 when Anna was diagnosed with breast cancer—a pivotal moment that shaped their passion for capturing the raw, human stories of healthcare, caregiving, and family through photography and film.In this heartfelt conversation, host Ro...
Jun 24, 2025•45 min
The ASTARISQ Summer Roundtable Series is back and more impactful than ever! This AHRQ-funded initiative spotlights changemakers dedicated to enhancing safety, quality, and trustworthiness in health delivery systems. Join host Rodney Elliott and series creator Dr. Hillary Edwards as they dive into the vision behind ASTARISQ. Dr. Edwards shares how this series is fostering a vibrant community of practice to drive meaningful change in healthcare. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation—be part of th...
Jun 10, 2025•30 min
We have an exciting episode with one of our team members. Paris Barnes, our Senior Training Specialist, sits down with host Rodney Elliott to talk about her role with our program. But as you will hear, she has done so much for the community and reveals how her experience has helped her achieve success. Paris shares how her goals in life are directly in line with the PATIENTS Program’s mission. Visithttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-patients-program to stay updated on both past and upco...
May 27, 2025•24 min
May is Older Americans Month—a time to honor the invaluable contributions of older adults and explore ways to support their well-being. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Nicole Brandt from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. Discover how her team is revolutionizing the aging process through innovative research and care strategies that empower older adults to thrive. Dr. Brandt introduces the Four M’s of Age-Friendly Care—What Matters, Mentation, Medicine, and Mobility. Vi...
May 13, 2025•32 min
In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking study on hip fractures and the benefits of accelerated surgery for patients. Dr. Gerard Slobogean, Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Research at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, provides expert insights into the study’s findings and implications. We also hear from Margaret, a study participant, and her daughter, Donna Audia, who served as Margaret’s caregiver, as they share their compelling experiences and perspectives. Don’t ...
Apr 22, 2025•33 min
The PATIENTS Professors Academy (PPA) is revolutionizing research—and now entering its 4th year of success! In this episode, we sit down with the visionary Joe Howarth, architect of PPA, and inspiring 2024 graduate Chisa Nosamiefan. Chisa shares how she’s transforming her community with the tools and knowledge gained from PPA. Together, they discuss how this groundbreaking program is reshaping the way research connects with real-world needs. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about innovation...
Apr 08, 2025•31 min
If you're passionate about making a differencein healthcare, curious about the behind-the-scenes of clinical research, or eager to explore new career paths, this episode is a must-listen. In this special episode, Michelle Medeiros , the PATIENTS Program’s Administrator of Business Operations and Director of Research, steps into therole of host. She brings together three trailblazing leaders in clinical research: Edye Edens , Casey Jackson , and Aryn Knight . Together, they dive into: Careers in ...
Mar 25, 2025•1 hr 3 min
The PATIENTS Going National Initiative isabout sharing the PATIENTS Program’s proven “recipe” for an evidence-based approach to patient and community engagement beyond Baltimore. By partnering with new communities, we aim to replicate the authentic experience of the 10-Step Framework and co-develop health research that’s truly patient-centered. We’re grateful for the support of our sponsors: Novo Nordisk, Bayer, and AstraZeneca. This week, we’re excited to welcome a special guest, Deepa Lalla, V...
Mar 11, 2025•23 min
The PATIENTS Professors Academy provided Brian Gutierrez with a solid foundation in patient-centered care, equipping him with the knowledge and tools to effectively serve and advocate for the Spina Bifida community. A 2022 graduate of the PPA, Brian has since used his advocacy work to empower others to find their voice in healthcare. His impactful contributions led him to return as a seminar leader. In this episode of the Bridge podcast, Brian shares his valuable insights as he prepares for the ...
Feb 25, 2025•24 min
Patient centricity puts patients' needs, values, and experiences at the heart of healthcare. In this episode, Dr. Anthony Yanni,Senior VP and Head of Patient Centricity at Astellas, shares insights into how patient perspectives shape every phase of medicine development—from early research to delivery. Discover the key strategies for improving outcomes byprioritizing what truly matters to patients. For more on patient-centric care, explore Dr. Yanni’s book, A Bandana and A Bluebird . Visithttps:/...
Feb 11, 2025•31 min
Join us on The Bridge: Your Health, Your Voice as we welcome Pam Cusick, Senior Vice President of Rare Patient Voice. Discover how Rare Patient Voice empowers patients and caregivers, both for rare and non-rare diseases, byconnecting them with opportunities to share their insights with researchers. Pam highlights the importance of amplifying community voices to drive meaningful change. Visithttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-patients-program to stay updated on both past and upcoming epi...
Jan 28, 2025•35 min
The PATIENTS Program has perfected the recipe for engaging communities in impactful, patient-centered research. Now, with the Going National Initiative , we’re taking our success beyond West Baltimore to communities across the country. Join Executive Director C. Daniel Mullins in this exciting 2025 kickoff episode as we share our proven approach and vision for national replication. Visit https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-patients-program to stay updated on both past and upcoming episod...
Jan 14, 2025•25 min
Join us as we reflect on an incredible year at The Bridge! From thought-provoking conversations to inspiring stories that uplifted and connected our community, 2024 was a journey to remember. We'll revisit highlights, share behind-the-scenes insights, and celebrate the impact we’ve made together. Tune in for a heartfelt wrap-up of the year that was—and a glimpse of the exciting future ahead! Visit https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-patients-program to stay updated on both past and upcom...
Dec 16, 2024•7 min
In this episode of The Bridge , Jazmiera Smothers take the reins as guest host to guide an insightful and heartfelt conversation with Tallulah Anderson, an active participant in the CO-PILLAR study. Tallulah shares her journey through CO-PILLAR’s study stages and the four foundational pillars of health—physical, mental, spiritual, and financial. Tallulah speaks passionately about how CO-PILLAR creates a supportive network where individuals with similar experiences can have their voice heard. Tac...
Nov 25, 2024•20 min
In this episode of The Bridge Your Health Your Voice , we are joined by Dr. Kyla Liggett-Creel, Executive Director of the EMBRACE Initiative. Dr K as she is affectionally called, describes how EMBRACE partners with community groups to build a world that is safe, just, and equitable. She gives insight on EMBRACE's core philosophy: individuals with lived experience are the true experts and are best equipped to lead transformative community work. We explore EMBRACE's dedication to removing barriers...
Nov 12, 2024•30 min
In this episode, we dive into the challenging and often hidden issues of domestic violence. Where silence can be the norm, even in faith-based settings. Beverly Reddy, the founder, and CEO of Ishsah’s Place discusses the cultural barriers that prevent open conversations, the silence within families, and the role of education in breaking this cycle of secrecy. We explore how faith communities can better equip themselves to support survivors, focusing on the need for education, resources, and a co...
Oct 08, 2024•28 min
Join us for an insightful conversation with Michael Scott, an award-winning advocate for prostate cancer awareness and active surveillance. Michael sheds light on the complexities of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment, from low-risk cases that may never need treatment to high-risk ones requiring urgent care. He discusses the importance of "shared decision-making" between patients and doctors. Michael also shares his journey in advocating for active surveillance as a viable option, especiall...
Sep 24, 2024•28 min
PATIENTS Day 2024 is here! Registration information is below!! In this week’s episode, Dr. Jason Falvey and Jazmiera Smothers dive into their roles for PATIENTS Day on Saturday, September 21, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University of Maryland, Baltimore Community Engagement Center. PATIENTS Day is more than just an event—it's a transformative experience for community residents, patients, researchers, trainees, and healthcare advocates. This fun-filled day in West Baltimore will reshape how res...
Sep 10, 2024•9 min
In this episode, we explore a critical issue faced by older adults recovering from serious injuries: mobility. Our guest, Dr. Jason Falvey from the University of Maryland School of Medicine is dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors with new disabilities. His research focuses on enhancing the ability of older adults to move safely and freely within their homes and communities. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Falvey to discuss his innovative approaches to resolving mobility challen...
Aug 27, 2024•21 min
The mouth is the portal to the body. This week, we are joined by Dr. Eleanor Fleming and fourth-year dental student Elizabeth Knight from the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Dentistry. Together, they delve into the importance of oral health and highlight the health disparities in various communities. The Bridge is the official podcast for the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Pharmacy PATIENTS Program. The PATIENTS Program is the bridge between the community and researchers....
Aug 13, 2024•54 min
We are incredibly proud of our work and our team members' achievements. Many of our former Post Docs have gone on to make significant research contributions, carrying forward the PATIENTS Program's mission of bridging the gap between community and research. In this episode, host Rodney Elliott is joined by Moaz Abdelwadoud and Nabil Natafgi to discuss how the PATIENTS Program has shaped their research endeavors. Visit https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-patients-program to stay updated o...
Jul 23, 2024•40 min
Why is it important to involve the community in violence prevention research? This episode of "Bridge: Your Health, Your Voice" answers that question and more as we sit down with Dr. Nadine Finigan-Carr, the Executive Director of the UMB Center for Violence Prevention. Visit https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-patients-program to stay updated on both past and upcoming episodes. To watch this episode and more, visit our YouTube channel and consider subscribing. https://www.youtube.com/pl...
Jul 09, 2024•35 min
Welcome to our annual Summer Roundtable Series, ASTARISQ: Addressing Systemic and Structural Racism to Improve Safety, Quality, and Trustworthiness in Health Delivery Systems (HDS). This year's theme is AWARENESS. We believe that we cannot address or change a problem if we do not see it. In our 2024 series, we will explore the impact of racism on HDS and identify opportunities to determine the root causes of racial health disparities. Join us as Hillary Edwards, the Director of Methodological Re...
Jun 25, 2024•37 min
Join us on this episode of "The Bridge, Your Health, Your Voice" as we welcome Elita Hill, a passionate anti-racism advocate and dedicated member of the PATIENTS Professors Academy. Elita shares her invaluable insights on health equity and discusses her efforts to amplify the voices of the underserved. Please tune in to learn more about her inspiring journey and commitment to making your voice matter in health research. Visit and subscribe to https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-patients-...
Jun 11, 2024•36 min
Join us as we listen to Jazmiera Smothers's courageous journey navigating mental health and grief. Her compassion leads us through the complex terrain of grief. Jazmiera underscores the vital significance of acknowledging and meeting the needs of our community amidst the challenges of loss. Check out Jazmiera's links below. http://www.thejazmierajanay.org https://linktr.ee/iamjazmierajanayy Links Website http://patients.umaryland.edu Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PATIENTSProgram/ Twitter htt...
May 21, 2024•32 min
Discover the power of leadership with Dr. Franklin Lance, guiding both Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church and the PATIENTS Programs Steering Committee. In this exclusive episode, Dr. Lance shares his visionary perspective on the future of Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church and the impactful PATIENTS Program. Tune in for a compelling discussion on leadership, community, and the journey ahead. Visit https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-patients-program to stay updated on both past and upcoming episodes. To...
May 14, 2024•36 min
Barbarajean Shaneman, affectionately known as Miss Bj, shines brightly as a jewel of our community. With over 40 years of experience as a community nurse and health advocate, she serves as our Senior Program Specialist for the Engagement team of the PATIENTS Program. Throughout her illustrious career, Miss Bj has tirelessly provided free healthcare services, leaving an indelible mark on numerous community health programs as their accredited developer and/or founder. Her unwavering belief in prio...
Apr 23, 2024•10 min
