Pharmacy Podcast Network

This Week in Pharmacy – June 27, 2025 Episode Title: “Going on the Offensive to Protect Public Health” 🎙️ Sponsored by IPC (Independent Pharmacy Cooperative) & SureCost This week’s episode of This Week in Pharmacy (TWIRx) is a call to arms: pharmacists, patients, and industry leaders are going on the offensive to defend public health from collapsing under the weight of unchecked PBMs, broken reimbursement models, and vanishing access to care. PART ONE: Claudia Holley (@c_money636) & Joshua R. Pirestani — Fighting Back for Patients TikTok star and unapologetic patient advocate Claudia Holley, known as @c_money636, joins the show alongside Josh Pirestani, founder of Dispense Marketing and publisher of Dispense Times. TogetheRx, we’re tackling the real crisis: corporate profits are steamrolling patients and community pharmacies. With drug access tightening and treatment safety protocols falling by the wayside, the pharmacy industry is being gutted. We break down the lost opportunity of NADAC — a fair drug pricing model with a standardized $10.49 dispensing fee — Todd Eury just talked with pharmacy owner Erich Cushey of Curtis Pharmaciesin PA, where pharmacy closures are leaving entire towns with no access to medications. This is not fiction. It’s what happens when Congress ignores the backbone of public health. 📉 Reimbursement drops 🏥 Pharmacies close 🧓 Patients suffer 💀 Access dies PART TWO: Calvin Hunsicker, Founder of SureCost – Smarter Pharmacy Starts Here Tech visionary Calvin Hunsicker dives into SureCost at NoCost, a summer promo offering pharmacies three months of SureCost free. Why? Because it works — slashing cost of goods by 2–5% and saving valuable hours on purchasing. With $8.5B+ in transactions managed annually, Calvin shares how his time as a pharmacy owner led him to build a tech-forward platform now used by over 10,000 pharmacy pros. PART THREE: Dr. Melissa Smith PharmD, CPH – Precision Medicine Meets Pharmacy Meet Dr. Melissa Smith, host of the upcoming PGx for Pharmacists podcast launching July 2025. A leader in precision medicine, Melissa explains how pharmacists can implement PGx to improve outcomes through genetic-guided medication decisions. Her new show will spotlight PGx integration, patient care, and how pharmacy is evolving to meet the demands of modern medicine. Don’t miss this packed episode — because protecting public health isn’t a debate, it’s a duty. 👉 Available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music & all major platforms. 🔗 ThisWeekinPharmacy.com #TWIRx #PharmacyPodcast #PBMReform #PublicHealth #SureCost #PGx #PharmacyAdvocacy

In the premiere episode of The Executive Dose, host Stephen Beckman—CEO of YARAL Pharma—sits down with Nicholas Hart, CEO of IBSA USA, for a timely and insightful conversation on the forces shaping the pharmaceutical industry in 2025. From supply chain disruption and regulatory pressure to innovation in both branded and generic sectors, these two leaders explore how today’s pharma CEOs are steering through uncertainty and preparing for the next wave of transformation. Key Topics Discussed: Introduction to The Executive Dose and its mission to spotlight leadership perspectives in pharma. Stephen Beckman shares his journey leading YARAL Pharma, the U.S.-based generics subsidiary of global healthcare leader IBSA Group.   Hart, CEO of IBSA USA, joins to discuss market dynamics from the branded side of the business. Why this conversation matters in today’s complex and rapidly evolving healthcare environment. What’s shaping pharma today—global uncertainty, supply chain instability, and shifting regulatory frameworks. The evolving relationship between branded and generic innovation: where the most impact is happening. How executives are leading through volatility while maintaining patient-centric growth strategies. The importance of resilient leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term portfolio planning. Emphasis on strategic alignment, regulatory agility, and mission-driven innovation. Predictions for the next 3–5 years: What will define success in pharma? How R&D, commercialization, and market access are being reimagined. Advice for rising leaders in the pharmaceutical space: Be bold, stay grounded, and lead with purpose. Episode Takeaways: Innovation isn’t just about products—it’s about mindset, agility, and leadership. Both branded and generic companies have a role in shaping the future of accessible, high-quality care. Strategic foresight and collaboration will define the next era of pharmaceutical growth.

To lease or not to lease…or to purchase?  When it comes to getting a new vehicle for the pharmacy, one of the most common questions we get asked from owners is “should I lease or should I purchase a vehicle?”  In this episode of Master The Margin, Scotty Sykes, CPA, CFP and Kathy Blanchard, Senior Pharmacy Accountant break down this question and what it means for your tax strategy including: - Why leasing might limit your tax strategy - How purchasing a vehicle can unlock large write-offs - Importance of mileage logs and business-use documentation - How a separate delivery LLC could protect your pharmacy from liability Check out the full episode with bonus insights: https://masterthemargin.substack.com/ Schedule an Rx Assessment: https://www.sykes-cpa.com/rx-assessment-service/  More resources about this topic: Podcast - One Big, Beautiful Bill: What the New Tax Proposal Means for Pharmacies: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99jnN08jGUo Blog – Tax-smart Depreciation on Pharmacy Buildings and Equipment: https://www.sykes-cpa.com/tax-smart-depreciation-on-pharmacy-buildings-and-equipment/

With 20 years of experience spanning top pediatric hospitals, cutting-edge research, and digital health leadership, Sharmeen brings unmatched insight into what it takes to personalize care at scale—especially for our smallest, most complex patients. From gene-guided dosing to scaling PGx programs in hospital systems, we discuss: Why a "one-size-fits-all" model doesn’t work in pediatrics How PGx can reduce the "trial-and-error" of ADHD, anxiety, and pain meds What it means to operationalize precision medicine in hospitals and clinics Her career journey—from the bedside to boardrooms and biotech The intersection of technology, pharmacy, and compassionate care Plus, don’t miss Sharmeen’s thoughts on: The future of pediatric PGx What excites her about working with organizations like CPIC, STRIPE, and PPA 👶 Whether you're a parent, pediatric provider, pharmacist, or just PGx-curious—this episode brings heart, science, and strategy together.

The field of Holistic Dentistry has fascinated me ever since I learned about the work of Dr. Weston A. Price and his research into the diets that support healthy teeth and jaw development. Join me in this fascinating conversation with a renowned expert in this field. Dr. Patel’s Green Dentistry practice focuses on the patient, first and foremost. From the spa-like comforts to high-tech, non-invasive treatments, every aspect of her practice is thoughtfully designed and focused on cosmetics, comfort, and your lifelong health. Dr. Nammy Patel is a graduate of the University of California’s School of Dentistry and a trailblazer in holistic, eco-friendly dental care. She is the founder of Green Dentistry and a passionate advocate for merging Ayurvedic principles with cutting-edge technology to promote total health and well-being. As a published author and respected leader in her field, Dr. Patel educates dentists and hygienists globally, emphasizing the powerful connection between oral health and overall vitality. Her passion extends beyond the dental chair into meaningful global and community initiatives. Dr. Patel leads a nonprofit that supports over 3,000 villages annually and works toward her mission of preventing oral cancer in one million people in India. She is actively involved with the American India Foundation and supports various humanitarian causes, believing deeply in using her platform for the greater good. Born in Dharotha, India, and immigrating to the U.S. at age five, Dr. Patel brings a global perspective to everything she does. She has built one of the most advanced, spa-like dental practices, offering patients both exceptional care and a nurturing environment. Her commitment to health, sustainability, and social impact continues to inspire change across the dental industry and beyond. Connect with Dr. Nammy via: Email: nammypatel@gmail.com  Website: drnammypatel.com, GreenDentistry.com FB: Dr. Nammy Patel  IG: @drnammypatel X: @DrNammyPatel Linked In: Nammy Patel

In this relaunch of the PBM Reform Podcast, Greg Reybold returns with a powerful and timely conversation exploring how concentrated economic power—particularly in the form of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs)—is undermining fair access to prescription medications, driving up drug costs, and crushing independent pharmacies. Greg is joined by Emma Freer, Senior Policy Analyst with the American Economic Liberties Project, a national non-profit and non-partisan organization dedicated to dismantling monopolistic control across critical sectors—including healthcare. Together, they dig deep into how PBMs serve as gatekeepers in the drug supply chain, extracting value at the expense of patients and providers, and how policy reform is urgently needed. Emma outlines how Economic Liberties is driving a new wave of anti-monopoly policy momentum in healthcare by advocating for stronger antitrust enforcement, corporate accountability, and legislative transparency. She highlights how concentrated PBM power not only threatens economic fairness but undermines public health outcomes. 🧠 Key Topics Covered: The history and unchecked growth of PBM power in the U.S. drug supply chain Why market concentration among PBMs is a systemic risk to patient access and competition What Economic Liberties is doing to pressure regulators and lawmakers for structural reforms Why bipartisan PBM reform is gaining traction—and what’s at stake if we fail to act How pharmacists, community leaders, and patients can join the movement for transparency and equity 💥 Why This Episode Matters: PBM dominance is no longer just a pharmacy issue—it’s an economic justice issue. This episode sheds light on the structural forces keeping drug prices high and independent pharmacies on the edge. It offers a compelling call to action for healthcare professionals, lawmakers, and reform advocates to push back against monopolistic control and put patients first. 📢 Call to Action: Visit www.economicliberties.us to explore their policy work and toolkits for reform advocates. Stay tuned to the PBM Reform Podcast as we bring together voices from across the healthcare and policy spectrum to fight for a fairer, more transparent system. Follow, rate, and share the podcast—because real reform starts with awareness and ends with action.

In this high-impact episode, Todd Eury leads a grounded and insightful discussion about smarter pharmacy purchasing in one of the most challenging business climates pharmacy has ever faced. Joined by Josh Miller of HAC Pharmacies and SureCost founder Calvin Hunsicker, the conversation reveals both the pain points and the real-world solutions driving meaningful change for pharmacy leaders. Josh shares how managing procurement for 24 pharmacy locations used to mean hours of manual price comparisons and reactive decisions. That changed when his team adopted SureCost—resulting in over $200,000 in savings every four months. Josh walks listeners through the implementation journey, staff adoption, and the purchasing tools that now empower his team to make confident, data-driven decisions. Calvin brings industry-wide context with findings from the 2025 Smarter Purchasing Report, highlighting stubborn inefficiencies in pharmacy procurement and why so many organizations still rely on outdated processes. He unpacks key data trends, the surprising insights from this year’s report, and what leaders can take away to begin transforming their own operations. This episode is more than a success story—it’s a strategic playbook for pharmacy operators who are ready to lead through disruption, adapt to pricing volatility, and take back control of their margins. 💡 Key Takeaways: Manual purchasing processes are costing pharmacies more than they realize. Centralized tools like SureCost drive savings, streamline decisions, and improve visibility. Leadership mindset—not just tools—is what separates the thriving from the stagnant. 📥 Download the Report & Join the Movement: Visit SureCost.com to access the full 2025 Smarter Purchasing Report and learn more about the SureCost Insights Conference, coming this November. Make the smarter move—your margins depend on it.

In this thought-provoking episode of RxGenius, host Dr. Ryan Paul Liabenow sits down with Nadia Archambault, PharmD—a pharmacist, certified sexual health therapist, and trailblazing entrepreneur—to unpack the often-misunderstood topic of sexual health. Together, they explore why sexual health is far more than just STI prevention and reproductive function. The conversation dives deep into the psychological, emotional, and relational components of sexuality, highlighting how pharmacists and healthcare professionals can better recognize and support the full spectrum of patient needs. Nadia shares her perspective on common misconceptions, the stigma surrounding sexual well-being, and the importance of approaching patient care with sensitivity, curiosity, and respect for diverse experiences. This episode challenges traditional views and emphasizes the essential role sexual health plays in overall well-being. Key Topics Covered: Redefining sexual health beyond disease prevention The mental and emotional dimensions of sexual well-being Pharmacists' roles in normalizing and supporting sexual health conversations Addressing stigma and tailoring care to diverse identities and needs Nadia’s journey from pharmacist to sexual health advocate and entrepreneur Tune in to RxGenius for an open, insightful dialogue that will reshape how you think about sexual health in pharmacy and patient care.

Today I got to have an amazing conversation that busts myths and makes the road to recovery seem simple and in one’s reach. My guest’s message is that you can solve even complex health problems with a systematic and proven step by step approach. Mel Hopper Koppelman, Program Director at Synthesis Health Lab, is the go-to expert for people who've "tried everything" to heal their chronic illness but keep hitting dead ends. By guiding her patients through a systematic 5 Stage Process, she helps patients achieve a 50%+ reduction in symptoms without endless supplements or constant lab testing. With two master's degrees and 15 years of clinical experience, Mel has pioneered a revolutionary approach that combines Chinese medicine, functional medicine, and developmental neurology. Her methods have helped thousands of patients recover from conditions like chronic fatigue, autoimmune disorders, and fibromyalgia when conventional and functional medicine failed. In a world where chronic illness is skyrocketing and patients spend thousands on supplements and lab tests without getting better, Mel is passionate about providing relief. Instead of chasing symptoms and over-focusing on lab markers, she helps people understand the first principles of healing and repair their nervous system's foundation. Her mission is transforming how we approach chronic illness by bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience. Connect with Mel via: Email: melhk@fastmail.com  Website: https://synthesishealth.co/shl FB: Mel Hopper Koppelman IG: @synthesishealth.co Linked In: Mel Hopper Koppelman Listeners can apply to be a free Guest in the Synthesis Health Solutions and Support Group. They can find the application at https://synthesishealth.co/shl

Check out the full episode with bonus insights: https://masterthemargin.substack.com/p/one-big-beautiful-bill-what-the-new Schedule an Rx Assessment: https://www.sykes-cpa.com/rx-assessment-service/ More resources about this topic: Podcast - Master The Margin: 2025 Tax Outlook: https://www.sykes-cpa.com/tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-2025-outlook/ Webinar - Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017: Pharmacy Impact and §199A: https://www.sykes-cpa.com/tax-cuts-and-jobs-act-of-2017-pharmacy-impact-and-%c2%a7199a/ Blog – Tax-smart Depreciation on Pharmacy Buildings and Equipment: https://www.sykes-cpa.com/tax-smart-depreciation-on-pharmacy-buildings-and-equipment/ Blog – Maximize Pharmacy State and Local Tax Deductions (SALT): https://www.sykes-cpa.com/maximize-pharmacy-state-and-local-tax-deductions-salt/