This Podcast Will Kill You
Exactly Right and iHeartPodcasts
This podcast might not actually kill you, but Erin Welsh and Erin Allmann Updyke cover so many things that can. In each episode, they tackle a different topic, teaching listeners about the biology, history, and epidemiology of a different disease or medical mystery. They do the scientific research, so you don’t have to.
Since 2017, Erin and Erin have explored chronic and infectious diseases, medications, poisons, viruses, bacteria and scientific discoveries. They’ve researched public health subjects including plague, Zika, COVID-19, lupus, asbestos, endometriosis and more.
Each episode is accompanied by a creative quarantini cocktail recipe and a non-alcoholic placeborita.
Erin Welsh, Ph.D. is a co-host of the This Podcast Will Kill You. She is a disease ecologist and epidemiologist and works full-time as a science communicator through her work on the podcast. Erin Allmann Updyke, MD, Ph.D. is a co-host of This Podcast Will Kill You. She’s an epidemiologist and disease ecologist currently in the final stretch of her family medicine residency program.
This Podcast Will Kill You is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including science, true crime, comedic interviews, news, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, Buried Bones, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast and more.
Since 2017, Erin and Erin have explored chronic and infectious diseases, medications, poisons, viruses, bacteria and scientific discoveries. They’ve researched public health subjects including plague, Zika, COVID-19, lupus, asbestos, endometriosis and more.
Each episode is accompanied by a creative quarantini cocktail recipe and a non-alcoholic placeborita.
Erin Welsh, Ph.D. is a co-host of the This Podcast Will Kill You. She is a disease ecologist and epidemiologist and works full-time as a science communicator through her work on the podcast. Erin Allmann Updyke, MD, Ph.D. is a co-host of This Podcast Will Kill You. She’s an epidemiologist and disease ecologist currently in the final stretch of her family medicine residency program.
This Podcast Will Kill You is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including science, true crime, comedic interviews, news, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, Buried Bones, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast and more.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 27, 2025 • 1h 25min
Ep 177 Toxic Shock Syndrome: A shock to the system
If you’ve ever read the little instructions pamphlet included in a box of tampons, you probably came across a paragraph calling attention to a condition called toxic shock syndrome (TSS). It describes the association between TSS and tampon use, symptoms of TSS, and guidance on how to reduce risk. This legally mandated warning label has formed an indelible link connecting tampons and TSS, and indeed, tampons form a large part of the story of TSS. But they are not the entire story. In this episode, we delve into that full story, examining what TSS actually is, the pathogens it’s associated with, and how it was first identified. If you’ve had TSS questions ever since you first heard of it in health class or on your box of tampons, this is the episode for you! Support this podcast by shopping our latest sponsor deals and promotions at this link: https://bit.ly/3WwtIAuSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11 snips
May 20, 2025 • 1h 20min
Ep 176 Strychnine: The WD-40 of Victorian Medicine
Dive into the chilling world of strychnine, once a popular but deadly tonic. Explore its historical medical uses, including a doctor who underestimated its dangers. Uncover the intriguing tale of Jane Stanford and her mysterious poisoning that raised questions of foul play. The hosts also tackle the dark allure of this toxin, discussing its biochemical effects and implications for mental health. Plus, enjoy a quirky musical tribute that connects history and science!
May 13, 2025 • 53min
Special Episode: Dr. Adam Ratner & Booster Shots
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatric infectious disease specialist and author, sheds light on the urgent lessons of measles and vaccine hesitancy. He draws from his experience during the New York City outbreak, emphasizing the virus's severe health risks and the importance of vaccination. Ratner explores the historical disparities in measles mortality rates, especially among marginalized communities, and discusses the impact of misinformation on public perception. Tune in for a passionate call to action for community health and education.
10 snips
May 6, 2025 • 1h
Ep 175 What’s the deal with raw milk: Part 2
The hosts dive into the raw milk debate, contrasting it with the safety of pasteurized milk. They explore alarming health risks, backed by statistics showing a significant increase in illnesses from unpasteurized consumption. Personal stories, like a family's struggle with E. coli, highlight the real dangers. The discussion also tackles the misconceptions about raw milk's benefits, while shedding light on the legal landscape and public health implications. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of the true risks and benefits involved.
5 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 10min
Ep 174 What’s the deal with raw milk: Part 1
There’s a growing buzz around raw milk and its supposed health benefits. Dive into the dangers of pre-pasteurized milk and the life-saving innovations of Louis Pasteur. The conversation unpacks how nostalgia for raw milk is entwined with a troubling anti-science movement. Explore the milk debate's ideological roots, and discover how cultural perceptions of lactose intolerance link to larger societal issues. Plus, enjoy a refreshing pink squirrel cocktail recipe for a fun twist!
28 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 57min
Special Episode: John Green & Everything Is Tuberculosis
Join John Green, the award-winning author and science communicator, as he delves into his latest work, 'Everything Is Tuberculosis'. He discusses the alarming resurgence of tuberculosis and its stigma today. Explore how this historical disease has shaped society and impacted healthcare disparities worldwide. John also reveals surprising connections, like the cowboy hat's origins linked to TB, while addressing the socio-economic barriers to treatment compliance. It's a stark yet fascinating conversation about a disease that's far from gone.
Apr 15, 2025 • 57min
Ep 173 Childhood Vaccine Schedule 2: Who’s making the call?
Explore the intricacies of the U.S. childhood vaccine schedule and its global variations. Discover the pivotal role of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices in shaping vaccination recommendations. The discussion dives into current outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, shedding light on the importance of public engagement and overcoming vaccine hesitancy. Personal stories illustrate the emotional weight of vaccine experiences, while strategies are shared for meaningful conversations about vaccination in communities.
Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 8min
Ep 172 Childhood Vaccine Schedule 1: Let’s give it a shot
Dive into the world of childhood vaccinations as the hosts break down the vaccine schedule in the US. Discover how vaccines work and the crucial role they play in preventing diseases. Historical lessons highlight past outbreaks, while the conversation tackles vaccine myths and hesitancy. Personal anecdotes and compelling statistics illustrate why these vaccines matter for public health. Join the discussion on the societal importance of immunization and how it protects not just individuals but entire communities.
22 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 58min
Ep 171 Pregnancy: Act 4
Explore the evolution of childbirth practices and how they've shifted from midwife-led to hospital deliveries over the last century. Dive deep into the often-overlooked challenges of the fourth trimester, including postpartum depression and the emotional complexities of new motherhood. Tune in for personal stories that reveal the joy and difficulty surrounding childbirth, along with the impact of societal attitudes on maternal health. Discover the disparities in postpartum care and hear a call for more personalized support in maternal health.
18 snips
Mar 25, 2025 • 1h 55min
Ep 170 Pregnancy: Act 3
The discussion delves into the evolving landscape of childbirth, highlighting the rise of cesarean sections and their historical transformation. Personal stories illuminate the emotional rollercoaster of labor experiences and the unexpected paths some pregnancies take. The hosts reflect on the complexities of labor, the importance of community support, and the implications of medical choices. They also explore the intricate physiology of childbirth and the emotional impact of pregnancy loss, fostering an understanding of diverse narratives within maternal care.
