The Wonders of Pharmacy

Check Out Our Wonders of Pharmacy Podcast!

• The Wonders of Pharmacy

  'Behind the Blue': Experiencing the ‘Wonders of Pharmacy’ with Olufunmilola Abraham

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  Changing the Game in Pharmacy Education with Dr. Olufunmilola Abraham

  In the inaugural episode of the Wonders of Pharmacy Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Olufunmilola Abraham, professor, researcher, and founder of the CRoME Lab at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, to explore how game-based learning is transforming pharmacy education and community engagement. Discover how innovative educational games are helping students, families, and future healthcare professionals learn complex health concepts through hands-on, interactive experiences. Dr. Abraham shares the inspiration behind creating engaging learning tools, the science that supports learning through play, and how these approaches are making pharmacy more accessible, memorable, and enjoyable for people of all ages. Whether you're a student considering a career in pharmacy, an educator looking for creative teaching strategies, a healthcare professional, or simply curious about the many roles pharmacists play in improving health, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of health education. Join us as we uncover how creativity, research, and innovation are changing the way people learn about pharmacy—one game at a time.

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  How Pharmacists Protect Us from Infectious Diseases with Dr. Ashlan Kunz Coyne

  Antibiotics have saved millions of lives, but using them the wrong way can make infections harder to treat. In this episode of The Wonders of Pharmacy, we sit down with Dr. Ashlan Kunz Coyne, an infectious diseases pharmacist and researcher at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy, to explore how pharmacists help fight infectious diseases and protect the effectiveness of antibiotics. Dr. Kunz Coyne explains how antibiotics work, why they should only be used when necessary, and what antibiotic resistance means for our future. She also discusses the important role of the human microbiome and how antibiotics can affect the beneficial bacteria that help keep us healthy. You'll also get a glimpse into how researchers are using new technologies, including machine learning, to better understand infections and improve patient care. Along the way, Dr. Kunz Coyne shares what inspired her career and how pharmacists work with healthcare teams to ensure patients receive the safest and most effective treatments. Whether you're a student, parent, or simply curious about medicine, this episode offers an engaging introduction to infectious diseases, antibiotic stewardship, and the vital role pharmacists play in keeping our communities healthy.

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  Meet the Pharmacist in the Emergency Room with Dr. Regan Baum

  When most people think of the emergency room, they picture doctors and nurses rushing to help patients. But did you know pharmacists are also an essential part of the emergency care team? In this episode of The Wonders of Pharmacy Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Regan Baum, an emergency medicine pharmacist at the University of Kentucky, to learn what it's like to care for patients when every second matters. Dr. Baum explains how emergency pharmacists work alongside physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to quickly choose the safest and most effective medications for patients facing serious illnesses and injuries. From responding to life-threatening emergencies to helping make split-second medication decisions, you'll discover how pharmacists play a critical role in the emergency department. Dr. Baum also shares what drew her to this exciting specialty, the challenges and rewards of working in such a fast-paced environment, and the skills needed to succeed in emergency medicine. Whether you're curious about healthcare careers or simply want to know what happens behind the scenes in an emergency room, this episode offers an exciting look at one of pharmacy's most dynamic specialties—and how pharmacists help save lives every day.

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  Think Pharmacists Only Fill Prescriptions? Think Again with Dr. Brooke Hudspeth

  Community pharmacists do much more than fill prescriptions—they play a vital role in preventing disease, improving health, and supporting patients throughout their lives. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Brooke Hudspeth from the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy to explore the expanding role of community pharmacists in preventing and managing chronic diseases, with a special focus on type 2 diabetes. We discuss how pharmacists provide services like health screenings, vaccinations, and evidence-based prevention programs, including the National Diabetes Prevention Program. Dr. Hudspeth also shares how her team secured a CDC grant to expand pharmacy-led prevention services and explains why community pharmacies are uniquely positioned to improve access to healthcare. Join us as we learn how today's community pharmacists are transforming patient care, collaborating with healthcare and public health partners, and making a lasting impact on the health of their communities.

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  What Does an Emergency Room Pharmacist Actually Do? With Dr. Gavin Howington

  Most people don't realize there's a pharmacist working alongside physicians and nurses in the emergency department—but their expertise can make a critical difference in patient care. In this episode of The Wonders of Pharmacy Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Gavin Howington, an emergency medicine and critical care pharmacist at the University of Kentucky, to explore what it's really like to work on the front lines of healthcare. Dr. Howington shares his journey into emergency medicine pharmacy, what a typical day in the emergency department looks like, and how pharmacists help make fast, evidence-based decisions in high-pressure situations. We also discuss fascinating topics such as rabies exposure and why post-exposure treatment is so important, newer approaches to pain management like subdissociative ketamine, and how emergency departments are adapting to better care for patients with opioid use disorder. Whether you're a student considering a career in pharmacy, curious about what pharmacists do beyond dispensing medications, or simply interested in emergency medicine, this episode offers an inside look at a fast-paced and rewarding specialty. Dr. Howington also shares practical advice for students interested in emergency medicine, including the value of shadowing pharmacists, seeking mentorship, and taking initiative to explore the profession.

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  The Career & Leadership Journey of Dr. Craig Martin

  How can a career in pharmacy grow from caring for patients to leading the next generation of pharmacists? In this episode of The Wonders of Pharmacy Podcast, Dr. Craig Martin shares his journey from growing up in Kentucky and discovering pharmacy to becoming an infectious diseases specialist, educator, and leader at the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. Dr. Martin discusses his work in infectious diseases and antimicrobial stewardship, including the important role pharmacists play in making sure antibiotics are used safely and effectively. He also shares how his career evolved beyond clinical practice into teaching and leadership. Along the way, Dr. Martin offers insight into the many directions a pharmacy career can take and advice for high school and college students who are beginning to explore their own futures in healthcare. His story shows that a pharmacy degree can open doors to patient care, education, leadership, and much more.

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  Changing Lives Through Community Pharmacy with Dr. Clark Kebodeaux

  What does it look like when pharmacists take an active role in caring for their communities? In this episode of The Wonders of Pharmacy Podcast, Dr. Clark Kebodeaux shares his journey into pharmacy and the experiences that shaped his career. He discusses caring for patients in underserved communities, including his work with diabetes and other chronic conditions, and the important role pharmacists can play in improving access to care. Dr. Kebodeaux also talks about training the next generation of pharmacists through community-based pharmacy residency programs and how the profession continues to expand beyond the traditional pharmacy counter. He shares lessons from his career and advice for students interested in exploring the many possibilities a career in pharmacy can offer.

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  At the Heart of Cardiovascular Disease with Dr. Hend Mansoor

  Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading health challenges in the world—but what can we do to better understand and prevent it? In this episode of The Wonders of Pharmacy Podcast, Dr. Hend Mansoor shares her expertise in cardiovascular health and discusses the many factors that can influence a person’s risk for heart disease. From genetics and lifestyle to medications and prevention, Dr. Mansoor explores what research is teaching us about protecting our hearts and improving cardiovascular health. She also shares her journey into pharmacy and cardiovascular research, giving listeners a look at how pharmacists contribute to patient care, research, and the prevention and management of chronic disease. For students interested in pharmacy, medicine, research, or cardiovascular health, Dr. Mansoor offers insight into the opportunities available in this important field. Join us for a conversation about heart health, cardiovascular disease, and the role pharmacists can play in helping people live healthier lives.

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  Medicine in the Wild with Dr. Jordan Woolum

  What happens when a medical emergency occurs far from a hospital—or involves a dangerous medication, substance, or poison? In this episode, Dr. Jordan Woolum discusses his career as an emergency medicine pharmacist and clinical toxicologist at UK HealthCare. He explains the important role pharmacists play in the emergency department, where they help healthcare teams make rapid medication decisions during critical situations. Dr. Woolum also introduces the fascinating field of wilderness medicine, which focuses on providing care in remote environments where medical resources may be limited. He shares practical considerations for preparing for outdoor emergencies and discusses how factors such as extreme temperatures and improper storage may affect medications. The conversation also explores toxicology, sports supplements, common household exposures, and when someone should contact Poison Control. Listeners will gain a better understanding of the diverse careers available in pharmacy and how pharmacists help protect patients both inside and outside the hospital.

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  Fighting Infections, Transforming HIV Care with Dr. Leigh Ann Keeton

  In this episode of Wonders of Pharmacy, we sit down with Dr. Leigh Ann Keeton to explore her multifaceted career in pharmacy, including her work in infectious diseases, antimicrobial stewardship, and HIV care. Dr. Keeton explains how pharmacists work alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals to help select the safest and most effective medications for patients. She discusses the importance of using antibiotics appropriately, monitoring patients for side effects and toxicity, and preventing antibiotic resistance so that these lifesaving medications remain effective when they are truly needed. The conversation also explores the growing public health challenge of antibiotic resistance and the important role pharmacists play in addressing it. Dr. Keeton shares how advances in medication and pharmacist-led care are also helping people living with HIV manage their health and live long, healthy lives. Finally, Dr. Keeton discusses pharmacy education, opportunities to strengthen the pharmacy workforce in Eastern Kentucky, and advice for pharmacy students as they prepare for successful careers. From fighting antibiotic resistance to improving individual patient care, this episode highlights the many ways pharmacists make a difference in both their communities and the broader healthcare system.

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  Pharmacists at the Heart of Patient Care with Dr. Tracy Macaulay

  In this episode of Wonders of Pharmacy, we sit down with Dr. Tracy Macaulay to explore the important role pharmacists play in protecting and improving heart health. Dr. Macaulay discusses how pharmacists help prevent and manage cardiovascular disease through medication management, transitions of care, patient education, and lifestyle counseling. She also explains how cardiovascular pharmacy services have evolved, how new research and clinical guidelines influence patient treatment, and why collaboration among healthcare professionals is essential to providing safe and effective care. The conversation also offers valuable insight for pharmacy students and early-career professionals interested in cardiovascular care, highlighting the many ways pharmacists can make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.

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  Unlocking the Immune System with Dr. David Feola

  In this episode of Wonders of Pharmacy, we sit down with Dr. David Feola to explore the connection between pharmacy, infectious diseases, and the immune system. Dr. Feola shares how his experiences as a clinical pharmacist inspired him to study inflammation and the role immune cells called macrophages play in the body's response to disease and injury. He discusses how researchers are exploring ways to influence these immune cells to reduce harmful inflammation and tissue damage in conditions ranging from pneumonia and cystic fibrosis to heart attacks and spinal cord injuries. Dr. Feola also explains his research using targeted drug-delivery approaches to help protect the heart following a heart attack. The conversation highlights how pharmacy extends far beyond medications and patient care into research and scientific discovery. Dr. Feola also shares advice for students interested in pharmacy, research, and finding a career path that combines their interests.

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  Pharmacy & the Brain with Dr. Aaron Cook

  In this episode of Wonders of Pharmacy, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Cook to explore the specialized world of neurocritical care pharmacy. Dr. Cook discusses how pharmacists help care for patients experiencing serious conditions such as strokes, traumatic brain injuries, and other critical brain and spine injuries. He explains how pharmacists personalize medication therapy for critically ill patients, including navigating challenges that can change how quickly medications move through the body. Dr. Cook also discusses why the first hours following a neurological injury can be so important and how pharmacists work alongside other healthcare professionals to help patients receive timely, effective treatment. The conversation also explores the role of research and mentorship in advancing pharmacy practice. Dr. Cook shares advice for students interested in critical care, neuropharmacy, and discovering the many specialized career paths available within pharmacy.

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  Pharmacy Care for Underserved Communities with Dr. Melanie Dicks

  In this episode, Dr. Melanie Dicks discusses her work supporting underserved communities through culturally responsive pharmacy care, improved language access, and community-based services. She shares practical ways pharmacists can expand access to medications, reduce stigma surrounding medication-assisted treatment, and provide care that considers each patient’s unique needs and circumstances. Listeners will learn how pharmacists serve as advocates and educators beyond dispensing medications, helping patients navigate complex healthcare systems, overcome barriers to care, and identify reliable health information.

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  A Lifetime of Learning in Pharmacy with Dr. Adrienne Matson

  In this episode, Dr. Adrienne Matson shares the journey that led her to pharmacy and how helping others has made her career so fulfilling. She explains what it takes to become a pharmacist, including the education and training involved, and breaks down the difference between pharmacy interns and residents. Dr. Matson also discusses her work with the Department of Veterans Affairs, her role in educating healthcare professionals, and her efforts to support pharmacists through continuing education and preceptor development. She explains why pharmacists must continue learning throughout their careers and how strong preceptors help prepare the next generation of pharmacy professionals. Finally, Dr. Matson offers practical advice to students interested in pharmacy, including how to explore the many career paths available and find the one that best fits their interests, strengths, and goals.

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  Why Is Quitting So Hard? Nicotine Addiction with Dr. Jill Turner

  Why is quitting smoking harder for some people than others? In this episode of Wonders of Pharmacy, neuroscientist Dr. Jill Turner shares her journey into neuroscience and her research on nicotine addiction. She discusses the challenges of addiction and withdrawal, factors that may influence susceptibility to nicotine addiction, and why experiences with quitting can differ. Dr. Turner also introduces the NRG3 gene and its connection to her research on nicotine withdrawal and returning to smoking. Along the way, she offers advice on avoiding nicotine addiction and gives listeners a glimpse into the science behind understanding why people start—and struggle to stop.

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  Working Together for Better Patient Care with Dr. Tera McIntosh

  Pharmacists do much more than fill prescriptions. In this episode of Wonders of Pharmacy, Dr. Tera McIntosh discusses her work as an ambulatory care pharmacist, collaborating with physicians, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to support patients. She explains how pharmacists help patients find appropriate medications, understand how to use them, and get the most benefit from their treatment. From providing vaccines to guiding patients through nonprescription medication choices, Dr. McIntosh explores the many ways pharmacists help meet community healthcare needs. She also discusses supporting long-term health and why consulting a pharmacist matters—even when a medication does not require a prescription. Dr. McIntosh also shares how diabetes camp gives University of Kentucky pharmacy students hands-on experience with type 1 diabetes care, including blood sugar monitoring and insulin management. She reflects on how these experiences help future pharmacists connect classroom learning with a deeper understanding of the people they serve.

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Coming soon

• Dr. Courtney Koogler
• Dr. Tracy Fischer
• Dr. Bjoern Bauer
• Dr. Holly Divine
• Dr Esther Black
• Dr. Stacy Taylor