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The PQI Podcast

Ginger Blackmon

The PQI Podcast, presented by NCODA, Inc., hosts clinical and administrative experts in oncology providing insight on important industry topics and how they value the Positive Quality Intervention (PQI) resource for their practice. In addition, the podcast highlights patient stories of hope, determination and how patient-centered care has impacted their cancer journey. Hosted by NCODA's Manager of Patient-Centered Communications, Ginger Blackmon, PharmD.

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20 episodes
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Avg 35 min
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S11 · E6
Yesterday · 33 min
Finding the Heart of Oncology
In this episode of The PQI Podcast, we welcome Joseph W. McCollom, DO, a medical oncologist and palliative care physician passionate about integrating supportive care into oncology practice. Dr. McCollom shares his personal experience with burnout, the lessons patients have taught him, and how palliative care helped him reconnect with meaning in his work. The conversation explores time, boundaries, whole-person care, and the importance of recognizing the emotional weight oncology professionals carry. They also discuss how the multidisciplinary care team can better support patients, families, and one another throughout the cancer journey.
S11 · E5
September 17 · 28 min
Keep Marching On: Changing the Story of Pancreatic Cancer
The PQI Podcast, Season 11 Episode 5 Keep Marching On: Changing the Story of Pancreatic Cancer In Season 11, Episode 5 of The PQI Podcast, we are joined by Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA President and CEO of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN). Julie shares how losing her father to pancreatic cancer led her to PanCAN, where she became the organization’s first employee and has spent more than 25 years helping drive change for the pancreatic cancer community. Julie and Ginger discuss PanCAN’s comprehensive approach to supporting patients and families through patient services, education, clinical trial and specialist resources, research funding, and advocacy. Julie also explains how individual patient and caregiver stories can become a powerful collective voice for advancing pancreatic cancer research and influencing federal investment. The conversation also looks at the growing momentum in pancreatic cancer, including advances in KRAS-targeted therapies, opportunities in early detection and combination treatments, and the potential role of AI. Julie shares why connecting patients and healthcare professionals with PanCAN resources can make an important difference as families navigate an overwhelming diagnosis. Learn more about PanCAN and its resources at PanCAN.org.
S11 · E4
September 3 · 32 min
From Data to Decisions: Decoding Prostate Cancer Updates
This week on The PQI Podcast, we are joined by Manojkumar Bupathi, MD and Matthew Garmezy,MD genitourinary oncology experts and hosts of the Oncology Decoded podcast. Dr. Bupathi is President and Managing Partner of Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers and Executive Chair of the Genitourinary Research Program at Sarah Cannon Research Institute. Dr. Garmezy serves as Associate Director of the Genitourinary Oncology Research Program and Associate Director of the Drug Development Unit at Sarah Cannon Research Institute Oncology Partners. Together, they bring perspectives spanning community oncology, clinical research, drug development, and real-world cancer care. In this episode, we discuss recent updates in prostate cancer and, just as importantly, how oncology teams can take new data and translate it into decisions that make sense in everyday practice. We also talk about Oncology Decoded, their approach to breaking down new research and treatment advances, and why understanding how to actually use emerging evidence is just as important as knowing the latest data. Listen to Oncology Decoded: https://www.cancernetwork.com/podcasts/oncology-decoded
S11 · E3
September 3 · 36 min
Beyond Borders: Bringing Cancer Treatment Within Reach
This week on The PQI Podcast, we are joined by Pat Garcia-Gonzalez, Co-founder and CEO of The Max Foundation. Founded in 1997 in honor of Pat’s stepson, Maximiliano “Max” Rivarola, The Max Foundation has grown into a global organization focused on accelerating health equity and helping patients access cancer treatment and care. Today, the foundation works in more than 80 low- and middle-income countries and channels more than 10 million doses of cancer medications to patients each year. Pat joins us to share Max’s story, how the foundation has evolved over nearly three decades, and the challenges patients around the world continue to face in accessing diagnostics, medications, and cancer care. We also discuss the importance of global partnerships, patient advocacy, and creating sustainable pathways to treatment. Learn more about The Max Foundation.
S11 · E2
August 27 · 38 min
Navigating Life After Cancer
This week on The PQI Podcast, we are joined by Geoffrey Rogow, Executive Editor of BBC Studios in New York, award-winning journalist, cancer survivor, founder of After Treatment, and author of the upcoming book I’m Alive. Now What? Geoffrey shares his experience being diagnosed with cancer at age 30 and how survivorship continued to shape his life long after treatment ended. The conversation explores the transition out of active treatment, the importance of finding support and purpose, and the need to better prepare patients for what comes next. Geoffrey also discusses the gap many survivors feel once the structure of treatment ends and the challenge of coordinating care across multiple providers over time. Learn more about Geoffrey and explore survivorship resources at After Treatment. Pre-order his book, I’m Alive. Now What? here.
S11 · E1
August 20 · 38 min
Fail First, Patients Last? Rethinking Step Therapy in Oncology
Welcome to Season 11 of The PQI Podcast, presented by NCODA. We are kicking off the season with an important discussion about step therapy, also known as “fail first,” and the impact these requirements can have on patients with cancer. Joining us are Lucio Gordan, MD, President and Managing Physician of Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, and Jay Seemann, Vice President of Market Access for BeOne Medicines. In this episode, Dr. Gordan and Jay discuss how step edits can delay treatment, increase emotional distress, create significant administrative burdens, and interfere with physician and patient choice. They also explore the importance of individualized, evidence-based treatment decisions and the roles that oncology practices, manufacturers, payers, policymakers, patients, caregivers, and advocates can play in moving solutions forward. Learn more and explore NCODA’s Step Edits in Oncology Hub: https://ncoda.org/news/step-edits-oncology/ Add your voice to NCODA’s Step Edits in Oncology Sign-On Letter: Individual Sign-On Form: https://resources-ncoda.cleverstory.io/individual-form Organizational Sign-On Form: https://resources-ncoda.cleverstory.io/organization-form
S10 · E15
June 4 · 42 min
From Student to Fellow to Leader: Exploring Pharmacy Fellowships
In the Season 10 finale of the PQI Podcast, host Ginger Blackmon is joined by NCODA Fellow Shawnny Eugene, PharmD, as co-host for a special conversation focused on pharmacy fellowships and professional development. Together, they welcome three former fellows who have taken unique career paths following their fellowship experiences: Cooper Bailey, PharmD, Rahil Dixit, PharmD, and Utoy Wong, PharmD. Together, they share their journeys from pharmacy school to fellowship training and beyond, offering practical advice for students, residents, and pharmacists exploring both traditional and nontraditional career pathways. The conversation examines what pharmacy fellowships are, how they differ from residency programs, and the many opportunities available across oncology, nonprofit organizations, advocacy, and the pharmaceutical industry. The guests discuss the skills they developed during their training and the importance of mentorship and professional growth. They also reflect on how their fellowship experiences helped shape their careers and prepared them for leadership opportunities within their respective fields. Whether you are a student considering your next step, a graduate exploring career options, or a pharmacist looking to expand your professional horizons, this episode provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of pharmacy fellowships and the impact they can have on career development. Learn more about NCODA and available professional development opportunities at ncoda.org
S10 · E14
May 28 · 40 min
Optimizing Access Through OOLD
Season 10, Episode 14: Optimizing Access Through OOLD In this episode of the PQI Podcast, we explore Oncology Optimized Limited Distribution (OOLD) and its growing importance within patient-centered oncology care. Guests Jonas Congelli, RPh, and Ken Komorny, PharmD, BCPS, discuss how distribution models impact oncology practices, care coordination, and the patient experience, while highlighting the critical role of medically integrated pharmacy services in supporting timely therapy initiation, education, adherence, and adverse event management. Jonas shares the vision behind OOLD and how medically integrated oncology teams help streamline care for patients receiving oral anticancer therapies. Ken provides insight into Moffitt Cancer Center’s experience navigating operational, financial, and policy challenges related to specialty pharmacy access, including advocacy efforts. The conversation also highlights how oncology practices, manufacturers, and advocacy organizations can work together to preserve coordinated care models that prioritize patient safety, communication, and continuity of care. Throughout the episode, the discussion reinforces the value of multidisciplinary collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of oncology pharmacy practice and improving outcomes for patients nationwide. Learn more about NCODA and NCODA’s OOLD initiatives here. View the poster Ken discussed here.
S10 · E13
May 21 · 37 min
Oncology Unfiltered: AI and the Future of Cancer Care
In this episode of the PQI Podcast, we are joined by Chadi Nabhan, MD, MBA, FACP, nationally recognized oncology leader, physician-executive, author, and host of the Healthcare Unfiltered podcast. Dr. Nabhan discusses his career journey across academic medicine, clinical oncology, healthcare leadership, precision medicine, and artificial intelligence innovation. The conversation explores how AI is beginning to reshape oncology research and cancer care, including opportunities to improve clinical trial operations, optimize protocols, enhance site selection, support real-world evidence generation, and ultimately accelerate patient access to novel therapies. The episode also highlights the growing importance of data quality, traceability, and diversity within AI-driven healthcare models. Dr. Nabhan shares perspectives on balancing innovation with human oversight, addressing skepticism surrounding AI adoption, and ensuring technology remains focused on improving patient care while supporting physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and the broader oncology care team. In addition to discussing the future of AI in oncology, Dr. Nabhan reflects on his experiences as an author and storyteller, including his books Toxic Exposure and The Cancer Journey, as well as his upcoming book, AI and Cancer Care: When Machines Meet Modern Medicine. The conversation also explores his growing interest in fiction writing and the creative process behind developing characters and medical storylines.
S10 · E12
May 14 · 29 min
Inside GU Oncology with Uromigos Co-Host Brian I. Rini, MD, FASCO
In this episode of the PQI Podcast, we sit down with Brian I. Rini, MD, FASCO, Ingram Professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, and co-host of the popular GU oncology podcast Uromigos, for a conversation on the evolution of genitourinary oncology and GU cancer care. Dr. Rini shares how mentorship and early exposure to GU oncology helped shape his career path and reflects on the rapid transformation of treatment over the years. The discussion explores his experience in clinical research and drug development, including involvement in therapies that have led to FDA approvals and changed the treatment landscape for patients with renal cell carcinoma. The episode also highlights the complexity and diversity of GU cancers, the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration across oncology care teams, and the future of innovation in GU cancer research. Dr. Rini additionally discusses the value of education and communication within oncology through his work with Uromigos, helping bring meaningful and practical Listen to Uromigos: https://www.uromigos.org/
S10 · E11
May 7 · 33 min
Your Best Meeting Ever with Rebecca Hinds, PhD
Season 10, Episode 11: Your Best Meeting Ever with Rebecca Hinds, PhD In this episode, we welcome Rebecca Hinds, PhD, to discuss her new book, Your Best Meeting Ever, and how teams can rethink the role of meetings in today’s evolving workplace. Drawing on her background in organizational behavior and research at Asana and Glean, Rebecca shares how meetings can be treated as products—designed with intention, structure, and purpose. The conversation explores practical strategies for busy, multidisciplinary oncology teams, including how to embrace meeting minimalism, create stronger starts, and ensure every participant is an active stakeholder rather than a passive attendee. Rebecca also introduces the concept of calm technology and discusses how AI can support more effective, focused collaboration across healthcare teams. Learn more about Rebecca and her work at: https://www.rebeccahinds.com/ This episode offers actionable insights to help oncology professionals streamline communication, improve team engagement, and make meetings more meaningful in delivering patient-centered care.
S10 · E10
April 30 · 41 min
Clearing the Fog: A Clinical Look at Chemo Brain
Season 10, Episode 10: Clearing the Fog: A Clinical Look at Chemo Brain with Jorg Dietrich, MD, PhD Cognitive changes during cancer treatment, often called “chemo brain,” can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. In this episode, Jorg Dietrich, MD, PhD, Clinical Director of the Cancer & Neurotoxicity Clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital and Associate Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, shares his expertise on the neurologic effects of cancer therapies. Dr. Dietrich discusses the biology behind treatment-related cognitive changes, including the impact of chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy on the brain’s cellular environment. He provides insight into how these symptoms present in clinical practice and how they can vary across patients. The conversation also focuses on practical strategies for the multidisciplinary oncology team. From early recognition and patient education to supportive care approaches, this episode highlights how pharmacists, providers, and the broader care team can work together to address cognitive side effects and improve patient outcomes. Dr. Dietrich brings a unique perspective through his leadership in cancer neuroscience and brain repair research, with over 200 publications advancing the understanding of neurotoxicity and recovery in cancer care. This episode offers valuable insight for oncology professionals looking to better support patients experiencing cognitive changes throughout their treatment journey.
S10 · E9
April 23 · 30 min
Bringing Clinical Trials Closer to Patients
In this episode of The PQI Podcast, John Burke, MD (Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers), shares his perspective on bringing clinical trials into the community oncology setting—where most patients are treated, but research isn’t always built in. He walks through why expanding research beyond academic centers matters, especially when it comes to improving access, increasing diversity in trial participation, and ensuring results better reflect real-world care. Dr. Burke also gets into what it takes to build and sustain a research program in practice, including the time, staffing, and infrastructure required, as well as the day-to-day challenges of patient eligibility, scheduling, and trial logistics. He also touches on common barriers, from time commitment and travel to patient trust. The conversation offers a grounded look at how practices are working through these challenges, along with the role of multidisciplinary care—physicians, APPs, nurses, pharmacists, and research staff—in supporting and sustaining these programs over time.
S10 · E8
April 9 · 40 min
TheOncDoc on AI: What Actually Matters for Oncology Teams
Artificial intelligence is rapidly shaping the future of oncology, but for many clinicians, the question remains: how can it be applied in a meaningful and practical way? In this episode, we are joined by Sanjay Juneja, MD, Vice President of AI and Medical Informatics at Tempus AI and a practicing hematologist and medical oncologist, to explore the evolving role of AI in oncology care. Known to many as “TheOncDoc,” Dr. Juneja has built a global platform dedicated to translating complex AI and oncology topics into accessible, actionable insights for healthcare professionals. Together, we discuss how AI is currently being used across oncology practices and where it is already making an impact. Dr. Juneja shares how AI can be thoughtfully integrated into clinical workflows across the multidisciplinary care team without adding burden, along with ways it can enhance patient education and support in an increasingly complex treatment landscape. He also addresses common misconceptions and myths surrounding AI in healthcare, offers perspective on where the field is headed, and provides practical, actionable tips for clinicians looking to get started or build upon their use of AI in everyday practice. This conversation offers a thoughtful and approachable look at how innovation and patient-centered care can come together to shape the future of oncology.
S10 · E7
April 2 · 36 min
Scaling Hope: The Future of Cell Therapy Access
Season 10, Episode 7: Scaling Hope: The Future of Cell Therapy Access In this episode of the PQI Podcast, Fabian Gerlinghaus, Co-founder and CEO of Cellares, shares insights into the evolving landscape of cell therapy manufacturing and its impact on patient access. Fabian discusses his background as an aerospace engineer turned biotech innovator and the inspiration behind founding Cellares, a company focused on transforming how cell therapies are developed and manufactured. The conversation walks through how CAR T therapies are created, from cell collection to reinfusion, and highlights the operational and logistical challenges that continue to limit scalability and access today. A central theme is the complexity of current manufacturing processes, many of which remain highly manual, contributing to delays, variability, and cost. Fabian shares how automation and new manufacturing models, including the Cell Shuttle platform, aim to address these barriers by improving consistency, reducing turnaround times, and supporting broader access to these therapies. The discussion also connects these advancements back to the oncology care team, exploring what more efficient manufacturing could mean in practice for pharmacists, nurses, physicians, and ultimately, for patients waiting on therapy. Looking ahead, the episode offers a forward-thinking perspective on how cell therapy may evolve over the next five years, with a focus on scalability, innovation, and the opportunity to reach more patients in need.
S10 · E6
March 26 · 35 min
Modern Antibody-drug conjugates and New CINV Challenges
In this episode, we welcome Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP, a recognized leader in oncology pharmacy practice and research. Dr. Hanna shares insights into the evolving landscape of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and the unique challenges they present in managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). As ADC use expands, oncology teams are observing new and sometimes underrecognized patterns of nausea and vomiting, particularly with HER2-directed therapies and delayed-phase symptoms that extend beyond the traditional monitoring window. This discussion highlights how these patterns differ from conventional chemotherapy and what that means for clinical practice. Dr. Hanna also reviews emerging pharmacokinetic data and clinical trial evidence supporting the use of NK1 receptor antagonist–based antiemetic strategies. The conversation emphasizes practical, actionable approaches for optimizing supportive care, improving patient quality of life, and ensuring proactive symptom management within the medically integrated oncology team. Learning Objectives: Describe emerging patterns of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) associated with antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs), with emphasis on HER2-directed ADCs and delayed-phase nausea beyond day 5 Discuss pharmacokinetic and clinical trial evidence on NK1 receptor antagonist–based antiemetic strategies when optimizing CINV prevention for patients receiving ADC therapy. This episode offers 0.5 CE credit hours to pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Claim CE credit here. Guest: Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP, Director of Pharmacy, Minnesota Oncology, Assistant Professor of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Associate Editor, Journal of the Advanced Practitioner in Oncology (JADPRO) Disclosures: Speaker: BeOne, BMS, Exelixis, Pfizer Consulting Fees: BeOne, BMS, Exelixis, Pfizer, Astrazeneca
S10 · E5
March 19 · 35 min
Advancing Oncology Care: Best Practices for Subcutaneous Administration of Anticancer Therapies
PQI Podcast | Season 10, Episode 5 Subcutaneous Anticancer Biologics: Best Practices for Safe Administration 0.5 hours of CE for Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, and Nurses Guests: Tonya Bauer, MSN, RN, OCN Karlee De Voss, MSN, RN Sylvia Sabala, RN, OCN As oncology care continues to evolve, subcutaneous administration of anticancer therapies is becoming an increasingly important strategy to improve patient convenience, reduce chair time, and enhance clinic workflow. However, these therapies often involve high volume injections and unique administration considerations that require careful planning, coordination, and technique. In this continuing education episode of the PQI Podcast, we explore how oncology teams are implementing subcutaneous anticancer therapies in practice. The discussion highlights the clinical rationale for subcutaneous delivery, operational considerations for oncology clinics, and practical techniques that support safe and effective administration. Pharmacists, nurses, and pharmacy technicians play a key role in ensuring appropriate preparation, administration technique, workflow coordination, and patient education. Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the clinical, operational, and patient-centered benefits and challenges of subcutaneous (SubQ) administration for anticancer biologics. 2. Identify best practices and technique considerations for the safe and effective delivery of high-volume SubQ anticancer therapies, including equipment selection, site preparation, and workflow integration. Continuing Education Credit This activity provides 0.5 hours of CE credit for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and nurses. Claim credit here. Disclosures: The following relevant financial relationships within the past 24 months have been identified and disclosed for the speakers of this CE presentation: Tonya Bauer, MSN, RN, CPON, OCN – Consultant: Accord BioPharma No relevant financial relationships for the following reviewers: Ginger Blackmon, PharmD Tahsin Imam, PharmD Mary K. Anderson, BSN, RN, OCN
S10 · E4
March 12 · 23 min
Preventing Blood Clots in Cancer Care
PQI Podcast | Season 10, Episode 4 Blood Clots and Cancer: What Every Oncology Team Should Know March is Blood Clot Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to spotlight an often overlooked but life-threatening complication in cancer care: blood clots. In this episode of the PQI Podcast, we speak with Leslie Lake, Voluntary President and Board Chair of the National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA). After surviving a bilateral pulmonary embolism in 2018, Leslie became a passionate advocate for improving patient education, awareness, and prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Her personal experience with limited information after discharge from the hospital inspired her to help ensure that other patients receive the knowledge and support they need. Leslie shares insights into the mission of the National Blood Clot Alliance and their national education initiative, Stop the Clot®, which works to increase awareness of blood clot risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies. The conversation also highlights why oncology teams should pay close attention to blood clot risk in patients with cancer, how healthcare professionals can better educate patients, and the role of advocacy and policy in improving outcomes. Listeners will learn practical strategies for patient education, key risk factors oncology teams should recognize, and how organizations like NBCA are working to improve awareness and prevention nationwide. Learn more at: www.stoptheclot.org
S10 · E3
March 4 · 44 min
No Room for Shortages: Protecting Patients Through Advocacy + Action
In Season 10, Episode 3 of the PQI Podcast, we are joined by Laura Bray, MBA, founder and Chief Change Maker of Angels for Change, to explore one of the most urgent challenges in oncology today: drug shortages. Laura shares the powerful personal story that led to the creation of Angels for Change after her daughter faced multiple life-saving drug shortages during cancer treatment. She provides a patient-centered perspective on what drug shortages truly look like in real time and why they have such a profound impact on care. The conversation highlights the current state of drug shortages across the United States and globally, along with the innovative work being done through Angels for Change to build a more resilient and transparent supply chain. Laura discusses key initiatives such as Project PROTECT and Project GOLD, which are helping ensure patients can access essential medications when they need them most. This episode also focuses on the role of pharmacists and the medically integrated oncology team in addressing shortages. From improving visibility to taking action within their own practices, listeners will walk away with practical ways to engage, advocate, and support patients during supply disruptions. Laura closes by sharing what gives her hope for the future and how collective action can move us closer to ending drug shortages for good.
S10 · E2
February 26 · 33 min
Bringing Care Closer to Home: Advancing Rural Oncology
Bhavana (Tina) Bhatnagar, DO—Associate Professor of Medicine at the WVU Cancer Institute—shares her journey from academic centers to rural West Virginia, where she’s working to expand access and improve outcomes for underserved communities. We talk about what high-quality rural cancer care really takes: overcoming transportation and financial barriers, navigating limited specialty resources, building community-based clinical trials, and expanding access to innovations like CAR T—powered by strong multidisciplinary teams. Key takeaway: the best care starts with understanding the person behind the patient.

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