

We Want Them Infected Podcast
Dr. Jonathan Howard and Wendy Orent
Our podcast delves deep into the dark side of the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing how influential doctors shaped the narrative.
📖 A Movement in the Making: "We Want Them Infected" isn't just a book; it's a call to action, exposing how the anti-vaccine movement infiltrated mainstream culture.
Join us on this journey of discovering the impact of misinformation on public health, trust in science, and more.
📖 A Movement in the Making: "We Want Them Infected" isn't just a book; it's a call to action, exposing how the anti-vaccine movement infiltrated mainstream culture.
Join us on this journey of discovering the impact of misinformation on public health, trust in science, and more.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 3, 2025 • 1h 12min
Trump-Based Medicine: How Science Lost Its Soul
In this gripping Halloween episode marking the second anniversary of We Want Them Infected, hosts Dr. Jonathan Howard and Dr. Wendy Orange confront the chilling reality of America under "Trump II." They dissect the collapse of public health, the weaponization of medicine, and the transformation of science into "Trump-Based Medicine"—a term Jonathan coins to describe physicians parroting political dogma over data. The duo highlights interviews and statements by Vinay Prasad, Marty Makary, Jay Bhattacharya, and Martin Kulldorff, who now echo President Trump's pseudoscientific vaccine directives—like splitting the MMR shot and delaying Hepatitis B vaccines. They warn that this alignment with anti-vaccine figures such as RFK Jr. and Andrew Wakefield marks a dangerous regression that could undo decades of medical progress. They also expose turmoil within the FDA, where Prasad's leadership has allegedly created a culture of fear, and discuss the growing exodus of scientists from federal health agencies. From declining measles vaccination rates to government loyalty tests, Howard and Orange paint a harrowing portrait of a nation sliding into scientific authoritarianism. The episode closes with their sobering realization: despite years of warning, even they underestimated how dark things could get. Connect with us further on https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/author/jonathanhoward/ The Fine Print The content presented in the "We Want Them Infected" Podcast and associated book is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers, hosts, and guests on the podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the creators, producers, or distributors. The information provided in this podcast should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical, scientific, or legal advice. Listeners and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant experts and authorities for specific guidance and information. The creators of the podcast and book have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. However, as the field of medical science and the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, there may be new developments and insights that are not covered in this content. The creators are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. They disclaim any liability for any loss, injury, or damage incurred by individuals who rely on the content. Listeners and readers are urged to use their judgment and conduct their own research when interpreting the information presented in the "We Want Them Infected" podcast and book. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, guidelines, and recommendations related to COVID-19 and vaccination from reputable sources, such as government health agencies and medical professionals. By accessing and using the content, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this disclaimer. Please consult with appropriate experts and authorities for specific guidance on matters related to health, science, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Oct 28, 2025 • 1h 19min
The Dog Who Caught the Car: Jay Bhattacharya and the Chaos at NIH
In this explosive episode, Jonathan and Wendy mark their podcast's second anniversary with a scathing review of the current state of U.S. public health and politics. They unpack the implosion of the lab leak movement, the chaos at the NIH under Jay Bhattacharya's leadership, and the bizarre alignment of former "anti-establishment" scientists with political power. From RFK Jr.'s firings at the NIH and CDC to Trump's latest "pro-science" rebrand, the hosts expose how disinformation, ego, and incompetence have reshaped American medicine—and why legacy media, now led by figures like Barry Weiss, keeps amplifying the madness. Connect with us further on https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/author/jonathanhoward/ The Fine Print The content presented in the "We Want Them Infected" Podcast and associated book is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers, hosts, and guests on the podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the creators, producers, or distributors. The information provided in this podcast should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical, scientific, or legal advice. Listeners and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant experts and authorities for specific guidance and information. The creators of the podcast and book have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. However, as the field of medical science and the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, there may be new developments and insights that are not covered in this content. The creators are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. They disclaim any liability for any loss, injury, or damage incurred by individuals who rely on the content. Listeners and readers are urged to use their judgment and conduct their own research when interpreting the information presented in the "We Want Them Infected" podcast and book. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, guidelines, and recommendations related to COVID-19 and vaccination from reputable sources, such as government health agencies and medical professionals. By accessing and using the content, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this disclaimer. Please consult with appropriate experts and authorities for specific guidance on matters related to health, science, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

59 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 1h 21min
Tylenol, Autism, and the New War on Public Health
Join Jonathan and Wendy as they explore the chaos engulfing U.S. public health, featuring a powerful whistleblower testimony that highlights integrity amid dysfunction. They discuss the fallout from Trump's controversial Tylenol-autism claims and the resurgence of discredited figures like Andrew Wakefield. The hosts reveal how misinformation is reshaping vaccine policy, with states and health groups pushing back against federal disarray. They also reflect on the personal toll of combating anti-vaccine rhetoric and the risks posed by influencers amplifying doubt.

52 snips
Sep 20, 2025 • 1h 15min
NEWSMAX with Bhattacharya: Incentives, Incidental COVID, and the Numbers Game
The hosts dive into the media's sanitization of Charlie Kirk in light of pandemic narratives. They dissect early claims by John Ioannidis that shaped public discourse. The discussion highlights how ‘protect the vulnerable’ rhetoric emerged and evolved into today’s critiques of the CDC. They also address the personal emotional toll faced by healthcare professionals during the crisis, the impact of misinformation, and how past myths resurface in current rhetoric. The episode culminates in frustrations over colleagues who failed to challenge false narratives when it mattered most.

Sep 7, 2025 • 1h 23min
Silenced and Censored in the Fight Over Pandemic Truth
In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Howard and Wendy Orent dissect the latest controversies around censorship, disinformation, and the rewriting of COVID's history. From Jonathan's YouTube ban after posting videos of public officials, to David Zweig's revisionist narratives about school closures, the conversation exposes how propaganda tactics and false claims are reshaping public perception. They also highlight troubling developments at the FDA, NIH, and in political arenas where vaccine mandates are under attack, drawing connections between misinformation, free speech battles, and the erosion of trust in science. Connect with us further on https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/author/jonathanhoward/ The Fine Print The content presented in the "We Want Them Infected" Podcast and associated book is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers, hosts, and guests on the podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the creators, producers, or distributors. The information provided in this podcast should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical, scientific, or legal advice. Listeners and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant experts and authorities for specific guidance and information. The creators of the podcast and book have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. However, as the field of medical science and the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, there may be new developments and insights that are not covered in this content. The creators are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. They disclaim any liability for any loss, injury, or damage incurred by individuals who rely on the content. Listeners and readers are urged to use their judgment and conduct their own research when interpreting the information presented in the "We Want Them Infected" podcast and book. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, guidelines, and recommendations related to COVID-19 and vaccination from reputable sources, such as government health agencies and medical professionals. By accessing and using the content, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this disclaimer. Please consult with appropriate experts and authorities for specific guidance on matters related to health, science, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aug 31, 2025 • 1h 2min
Resignation Petition Against RFK Jr. Gains Momentum in Public Health
Public health leaders, scientists, and concerned citizens are rallying together to demand accountability from RFK Jr. His recent decisions and rhetoric have ignited a firestorm of criticism, raising alarms about the future of public health in America. A new petition calls for his immediate resignation, citing dangerous policies, lack of scientific transparency, and a disregard for evidence-based medicine. This movement is about more than politics—it's about safeguarding the health and security of Americans. By signing, you join a coalition of doctors, experts, and everyday citizens standing up for truth, integrity, and science. 👉 Sign and share the petition here: https://www.change.org/p/demand-rfk-jr-resign-petition-for-a-healthy-america Connect with us further on https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/author/jonathanhoward/ The Fine Print The content presented in the "We Want Them Infected" Podcast and associated book is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers, hosts, and guests on the podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the creators, producers, or distributors. The information provided in this podcast should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical, scientific, or legal advice. Listeners and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant experts and authorities for specific guidance and information. The creators of the podcast and book have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. However, as the field of medical science and the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, there may be new developments and insights that are not covered in this content. The creators are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. They disclaim any liability for any loss, injury, or damage incurred by individuals who rely on the content. Listeners and readers are urged to use their judgment and conduct their own research when interpreting the information presented in the "We Want Them Infected" podcast and book. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, guidelines, and recommendations related to COVID-19 and vaccination from reputable sources, such as government health agencies and medical professionals. By accessing and using the content, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this disclaimer. Please consult with appropriate experts and authorities for specific guidance on matters related to health, science, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aug 21, 2025 • 2h 11min
The Politics of COVID Origins with Dr. Philipp Markolin PhD
In this episode of We Want Them Infected, Dr. Jonathan Howard and Wendy Orent unpack the shocking CDC shooting in Atlanta, which many are calling "public health's January 6th." They trace how years of anti-science rhetoric from figures like RFK Jr., Jay Bhattacharya, and Vinay Prasad have fueled violent consequences. They also welcome their first guest, Dr. Philipp Markolin PhD, author of Lab Leak Fever. Dr. Markolin shares his global reporting on COVID's origins, dismantles the so-called "lab leak" hypothesis, and explains how disinformation has been weaponized for politics and power. From epidemiological evidence at the Wuhan market to the ghost DNA of raccoon dogs, he outlines why science overwhelmingly supports a zoonotic origin. This episode tackles misinformation, political corruption, and the dangerous future of science under attack—while honoring the tragic loss of a young officer in the CDC shooting. Resources Mentioned Dr. Phillipp Markolin: Lab Leak Fever → https://www.lab-leak-fever.com/about STAT News article: "The CDC Shooting Was Public Health's January 6th" by Colin Carlson & Sean Kennedy STAT News article: "Kennedy's Case Against mRNA Vaccines Collapses Under His Own Evidence" by Dr. Jake Scott LA Times: Coverage of COVID resurgence in the Southwest, fall 2025 MedPage Today: "The Executive Order That Could Cripple Science" by Adam Brown Science-Based Medicine: Analysis of Jay Bhattacharya and NIH policy shifts Audrey Tang (Taiwan's Cyber Minister) – discussed as a model for democratic info ecosystems Guest Bio – Dr. Philipp Markolin Dr. Philipp Markolin, PhD is a Switzerland-based science writer and author of Lab Leak Fever, a definitive investigation into the origins of COVID-19. Trained in molecular biology and machine learning, Dr. Markolin spent more than a decade in academia before transitioning to science communication during the pandemic. He has written extensively on the intersection of science, conspiracy theories, and society, and has interviewed leading virologists, field researchers, and policymakers around the world. His reporting has taken him into wildlife markets and labs, where he traced the evidence that overwhelmingly supports a zoonotic origin for COVID-19. Dr. Markolin also co-produced a documentary film exploring the pandemic's origins and the scientists at the center of the controversy. He writes the blog Protagonist Science and speaks globally on the dangers of misinformation and the urgent need to protect scientific integrity. Connect with us further on https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/author/jonathanhoward/ The Fine Print The content presented in the "We Want Them Infected" Podcast and associated book is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers, hosts, and guests on the podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the creators, producers, or distributors. The information provided in this podcast should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical, scientific, or legal advice. Listeners and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant experts and authorities for specific guidance and information. The creators of the podcast and book have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. However, as the field of medical science and the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, there may be new developments and insights that are not covered in this content. The creators are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. They disclaim any liability for any loss, injury, or damage incurred by individuals who rely on the content. Listeners and readers are urged to use their judgment and conduct their own research when interpreting the information presented in the "We Want Them Infected" podcast and book. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, guidelines, and recommendations related to COVID-19 and vaccination from reputable sources, such as government health agencies and medical professionals. By accessing and using the content, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this disclaimer. Please consult with appropriate experts and authorities for specific guidance on matters related to health, science, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 10min
Vinay Prasad Fired from the FDA: How It Really Went Down
In this episode, we break down the high-profile firing of Dr. Vinay Prasad from his FDA leadership post. Once hailed as a contrarian voice in medicine, Prasad quickly became a polarizing figure both inside and outside the agency. We explore the tangled web of political infighting, pressure from Big Pharma, the biotech industry, and conspiracy theorists like Laura Loomer—and why this decision may have less to do with science and more with chaos at the top. Connect with us further on https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/author/jonathanhoward/ The Fine Print The content presented in the "We Want Them Infected" Podcast and associated book is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers, hosts, and guests on the podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the creators, producers, or distributors. The information provided in this podcast should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical, scientific, or legal advice. Listeners and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant experts and authorities for specific guidance and information. The creators of the podcast and book have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. However, as the field of medical science and the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, there may be new developments and insights that are not covered in this content. The creators are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. They disclaim any liability for any loss, injury, or damage incurred by individuals who rely on the content. Listeners and readers are urged to use their judgment and conduct their own research when interpreting the information presented in the "We Want Them Infected" podcast and book. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, guidelines, and recommendations related to COVID-19 and vaccination from reputable sources, such as government health agencies and medical professionals. By accessing and using the content, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this disclaimer. Please consult with appropriate experts and authorities for specific guidance on matters related to health, science, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jul 29, 2025 • 1h 16min
When Anti-Vaxxers Get Power
What happens when the loudest anti-vaccine voices stop podcasting and start running the FDA? In this explosive episode, Jonathan Howard and Wendy unpack how Drs. Marty Makary and Vinay Prasad — once champions of vaccine skepticism — are now in charge of public health policy… and finding themselves at war with the very conspiracy movement they courted. From quoting dubious anecdotes as "data" to downplaying real virus-related deaths while obsessing over vaccine side effects, their hypocrisy is staggering. Even MAGA influencers and anti-vax leaders are turning on them for not going far enough. The leopards are eating their faces — and we're here to document the carnage. Connect with us further on https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/author/jonathanhoward/ The Fine Print The content presented in the "We Want Them Infected" Podcast and associated book is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers, hosts, and guests on the podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the creators, producers, or distributors. The information provided in this podcast should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical, scientific, or legal advice. Listeners and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant experts and authorities for specific guidance and information. The creators of the podcast and book have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. However, as the field of medical science and the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, there may be new developments and insights that are not covered in this content. The creators are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. They disclaim any liability for any loss, injury, or damage incurred by individuals who rely on the content. Listeners and readers are urged to use their judgment and conduct their own research when interpreting the information presented in the "We Want Them Infected" podcast and book. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, guidelines, and recommendations related to COVID-19 and vaccination from reputable sources, such as government health agencies and medical professionals. By accessing and using the content, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this disclaimer. Please consult with appropriate experts and authorities for specific guidance on matters related to health, science, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jul 20, 2025 • 1h 25min
Did Vaccine Myocarditis Destroy Trust in Public Health?
Dr. Jonathan Howard and Wendy Orent unpack the ongoing collapse of trust in America's public health institutions, focusing on how FDA leaders Marty McCarey and Vinay Prasad weaponized vaccine myocarditis to undermine COVID vaccination efforts. With pediatric illnesses rising and the agency under fire from both scientists and extremists, this episode reveals how selective concern and ideological doublespeak are fueling a dangerous breakdown in science-based policy. It's a sobering look at the cost of playing politics with public health. Connect with us further on https://sciencebasedmedicine.org/author/jonathanhoward/ The Fine Print The content presented in the "We Want Them Infected" Podcast and associated book is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers, hosts, and guests on the podcast do not necessarily reflect the views of the creators, producers, or distributors. The information provided in this podcast should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical, scientific, or legal advice. Listeners and readers are encouraged to consult with relevant experts and authorities for specific guidance and information. The creators of the podcast and book have made reasonable efforts to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date. However, as the field of medical science and the understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to evolve, there may be new developments and insights that are not covered in this content. The creators are not responsible for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided. They disclaim any liability for any loss, injury, or damage incurred by individuals who rely on the content. Listeners and readers are urged to use their judgment and conduct their own research when interpreting the information presented in the "We Want Them Infected" podcast and book. It is essential to stay informed about the latest updates, guidelines, and recommendations related to COVID-19 and vaccination from reputable sources, such as government health agencies and medical professionals. By accessing and using the content, you acknowledge and accept the terms of this disclaimer. Please consult with appropriate experts and authorities for specific guidance on matters related to health, science, and the COVID-19 pandemic.


