MSL Talk

300 Episodes of MSL Talk: 10 Truths Every MSL Should Know

05 May 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela marks the milestone of episode 301 by delving into the evolving landscape of the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) role. He ...

From Stuck to Standout: The Real Path to Growth in Medical Affairs

28 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this milestone 300th episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Rachel Kennedy from Moderna to discuss her journey into medical affairs. Rachel shares her expe...

Best Athlete Available: How to Become the BEST in Your Field

21 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Jeff Durr delve into the characteristics that distinguish top-performing athletes. They explore the "best athlete av...

How to Systematize KOL Engagement and Advocacy

14 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Melanie Sillam explore the intricacies of establishing a formal Key Opinion Leader (KOL) engagement process for Medi...

Crazy Career Blunders That RUIN Your Reputation

07 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela explores the critical aspects of reputation management and common career blunders for Medical Science Liaisons. He addre...

Inside The Mind Of A Medical Affairs Hiring Manager

31 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Stefanie Cribb explore building successful Medical Science Liaison (MSL) teams. They discuss how candidates can show...

From Self Doubt to Self-Trust: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as an MSL

24 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Zak Balmuth-Loris to discuss imposter syndrome among Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). Zak shares his backgr...

Resilience: How to Find Success In A Broken Job Market

17 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela delves into the complexities of the job search process, offering insights into employer perspectives and candidate exper...

Strategy First: The Hidden Skill That Defines Elite MSLs

10 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Brant Jarrett explore the crucial role of strategic thinking for Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). They discuss how K...

Social Media and Compliance: What Every MSL Should Know

03 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Carl De Luca explore social media compliance for Medical Science Liaisons. They discuss maintaining compliance while...

Mind Hoarder: How to Un-Clutter Your Mind

24 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela explores the concept of "Mind Hoarder," addressing the pervasive issue of mental clutter and its impact on well-being. He examines variou...

How to Answer the TOUGHEST Interview Questions

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela tackles the complexities of confronting tough interview questions, providing essential insights for Medical Science Liai...

Activity to Impact: How MSLs Prove Value

10 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela and Dee Dee Gwinn explore the evolving value of medical affairs, starting with the significance of wearing red for heart awareness. They ...

Protect Your Time, Protect Your Peace

03 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela examines the critical topic of time management for Medical Science Liaisons, emphasizing the need to protect and use time intentionally. ...

SSP: Why Shameless Self-Promotion Is A Career MUST

27 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela and Amy Everitt explore career progression strategies for Medical Science Liaisons, focusing on self-advocacy and its critical role in ca...

How To Attract Success In Your Life and Career

13 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela delves into the principles of the law of attraction, offering insights into its application in both personal and professional contexts. H...

How To Get A Seat At The Medical Affairs Table

06 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela is joined by Sanaz Cardoza to discuss the significance of medical affairs and what it means for MSLs to "get a seat at the table." They e...

One Question That Can Change Your Life

23 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela provides updates on upcoming changes and highlights an AI in Medical Affairs Conference, along with recommending the boo...

MSL vs. MOL - ALL You Need to Know

16 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Mahesh Tawney to explore the evolving role of Medical Outcomes Liaisons (MOLs). They delve into the distinc...

The Rise of Bluesky – What MSLs Need to Know

09 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela and Lauren Dwyer explore the emerging social media platform Bluesky, examining its potential impact on the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) ...

Links or Patties? How the Sausage is Made in Medical Affairs

02 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Michael Kahn to delve into decision-making within medical affairs. Michael shares his expertise on how organiza...

The AI Gap in Medical Affairs: Why 95% of Gen AI Projects Fail

25 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of MSL Talk, Tom Caravela is joined by Vera Kutsenko to explore the AI gap in medical affairs. They discuss the challenges and resista...

The Publication Playbook- Turning Science into Strategy

18 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this week’s episode of MSL Talk, we dive into a major pillar of Medical Affairs that is often misunderstood and overlooked... publications. And f...

The Impact and Journey of Omni-Channel in Medical Affairs

11 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of MSL Talk, Tom Caravela is joined by Jason Howard to explore the transformative role of omnichannel strategies in medical affairs. T...

The Seinfeld Episode- A Show About Nothing

04 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of MSL Talk, Tom Caravela is joined by Cathy Andorfer who shares her insights on the impact of changing times on MSL roles and the ski...

Launch Excellence: Wins, Wobbles & Lessons Learned

28 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela sits down with Ramin Farhood to discuss the intricacies of product launches within the pharmaceutical industry. They explore indicators o...

Authenticity: Why MSLs Need to Be Their Human Self

21 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of MSL Talk, host Tom Caravela sits down with India Scales, Medical Science Liaison at AstraZeneca, for a powerful and refreshingly ho...

Patients, Purpose & Ethics of Progress

14 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Kirk Shepherd to explore the importance of patient voices in clinical decision-making, addressing access, e...

Scientific Storytelling: How to make science stick

07 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Maria Urso for her third appearance, focusing on the art of scientific storytelling. Maria shares insights from...

How AI Ruined My Job Search

30 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela explores the role of AI in the job search process and key factors that could lead to critical mistakes. The discussion b...

The (AI) Augmented MSL (Part 2)

16 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Nandini Sabharwal and Vivek Mukhatyar to explore the evolving role of AI tools in the Medical Science Liais...

Identifying Rate Limiting Steps (& Catalyzing What Matters)

09 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by George Limen to discuss identifying and addressing rate limiting steps in the MSL field. They define rate l...

Competitive Intelligence-The Missing Link for MSLs

26 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Maria Abunto to discuss the impact of competitive intelligence within medical affairs and its significance for ...

Interim Impact: The Rise of “Fractional” Medical Affairs Roles in Pharma’s New Reality

19 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Daniel Snyder explore the rise of fractional medical affairs roles in the post-COVID era. They define interim and fr...

From Interactions to Impact: How Medical Affairs Can Prove Its Value

12 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Lusine Kodagolian to discuss how to measure the value of medical affairs. They explore the SMART framework,...

Social Media Listening Evolved

05 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela, Conor McGladrigan, and Kevin Peterson discuss the evolving role of social media listening in Medical Affairs. They disc...

Culture, Context, and Care: The Role of Medical Anthropology in Medical Affairs

29 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela, Sonika Garcia, and Suzi Fraze explore the intersection of medical anthropology and medical affairs. They discuss cultur...

How to Silence Self Doubt And Create Unstoppable Confidence

22 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Allison Trucillo to discuss the journey of overcoming self-doubt and the inner critic. Allison shares her perso...

Over-Negotiation-How to Botch a Job Offer

15 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela warns job seekers about over negotiation and making unnecessary mistakes in the offer process. Tom debunks common myths ...

Freedom: The Mid Year Check In

08 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela reflects on the concepts of freedom and progress, providing a historical context for Independence Day and its relevance ...

How to Start Presenting Like a Pro

27 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Sarah Snyder and Patrina Pellett to share expert advice on how to become a master presenter. They explore a...

Healthy on the Road-How to Avoid MSL Belly

24 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Alex Palumbo discuss the challenges faced by Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) to stay healthy with a crazy travel sch...

The State of the Job Market 2025

17 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Bridget Rasmusson discuss the current state of the job markets and factors that are influencing it. They begin by di...

The Strategic vs the Scientific MSL

10 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Joy Morrell to explore the multifaceted role of Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) in medical affairs. They di...

Be Brave-A Networking Tale that Led to Friendship

03 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Josh Yoder and Kirsten Borbe to share their amazing story of how a networking message on LinkedIn led to a friendship. The discussion...

How Medical Affairs Professionals Should Engage with Digital Opinion Leaders

20 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of MSL Talk, Tom Caravela sits down with Paul Ward for an insightful conversation on the evolving role of Digital Opinion Leaders (DOL...

How to Leverage YOUR Unique Skills for Career Advantage

13 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela sits down with Hahn-Ey Lee to discuss the importance of leveraging unique skills to advance the career of a Medical Scie...

Fierce Pharma Engage 2025 - RECAP

06 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Patrina Pellett explore the highlights of the Fierce Pharma Engage 2025 conference. They discuss the conference's fo...

ESCAPE from Ordinary in Pursuit of YOUR Passion

29 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes renowned Entertainer, Magician, Escape Artist and Hypnotist Danny Zzzz who shares his journey from an unconvent...

The Power of Non Traditional KOL Engagement

22 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Lindsey Harrer to discuss the power of non traditional Key Opinion Leader (KOL) engagement for Medical Scie...

Medical Affairs- So Far to Come... So Far to Go

08 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Mandy Krumnow explore the evolving landscape of medical affairs, highlighting its value and impact. They discuss wha...

2025 MAPS Conference RECAP

01 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Patrina Pellett offer a full RECAP of the 2025 Medical Affairs Professional Society Meeting. The key themes from the...

How Should Medical Affairs Engage on Social Media

25 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Sarah Snyder delve into the vital role of social media for Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). They discuss its evoluti...

It Can be Lonely in the Life of an MSL

18 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes special guest Trish Gorecki to share her insights and experiences as a Medical Science Liaison (MSL). The conve...

The 3 “Knows” of Effective Scientific Communication

11 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by guest Linda Traylor who discusses the 3 "knows" of scientific communication for Medical Science Liaisons (M...

Finding MSL Success in Cross Therapeutic Transitions

04 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Mitch D'Rosario and Deanna Tucker to discuss the intricacies of switching therapeutic areas as a Medical Scienc...

The Ideal Roadmap for New MSLs

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Sarah Snyder, MSL Recruiter at The Carolan Group and Co-Founder of MSL Mastery who discusses an ideal road ...

Is it Ever Too Early or Too Late

18 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Jeff Vaughn and Dean McAllister to discuss the critical timing of Medical Science Liaison (MSL) involvement...

Utilizing Social Media and Digital Tools in Medical Affairs

11 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela hosts Amanda Lally to explore the growing impact of digital tools and social media in medical affairs. Amanda shares ins...

AI in Medical Affairs

04 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Patrina Pellett discuss insights from a recent AI in Medical Affairs conference. Tom highlights the lively atmospher...

What is Your Value?: Defining and Driving MSL Value Demonstration

28 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Cherie Hyder to discuss the critical topic of MSLs demonstrating VALUE. The conversation delves into defining v...

The Amazing History and Evolution of Medical Affairs in 32 Minutes

21 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Ralph Rewers to explore the history and evolution of Medical Affairs. They discuss the origins and progress...

Ideal Job Search Timing: When Is The Right Time To Find A New Job?

20 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Tom Caravela welcomes Sandy Ponzek to discuss the nuances of job search timing for MSLs. Sandy shares her extensive background, setting the stage for ...

How to Succeed in Any Area of Your Life

14 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela explores the transformative power of self-commitment, focusing on the importance of making promises to oneself. He delve...

Top 5 MSL Frustrations and How to Overcome Them

07 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela and guests Sarah Snyder and Patrina Pellett discuss the common frustrations faced by Medical Science Liaisons, exploring...

Filler Words-Fix the Problem You Didn't Know You Had

18 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela delves into the significance of eliminating filler words in professional as well as personal communication. He highlight...

The Struggle With KOL Access in Todays World

10 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Carsten Schnatwinkel and Jeanna Cooper join Tom Caravela to discuss the evolving landscape of KOL access in medical affairs. They address challenges i...

No “D”…No Problem: Finding Success WITHOUT a Doctorate

03 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Greg Auclair from Cytokinetics shares his journey into medical affairs and insights into the MSL role. He discusses his transition, t...

What is the ONE Word?

26 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week is a solo episode, Tom Caravela, Founder and Managing Partner at The Carolan Group presents a special Thanksgiving episode on the ONE word. ...

Surround to Succeed: Building a Motivational Network

19 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week’s guest is Sarah Snyder, MSL Recruiter with The Carolan Group who discusses the importance of surrounding yourself with a motivational net...

Leveraging Real-World Evidence (RWE) in MSL Activities

12 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week's guest is Elizabeth Pash, Medical Affairs Executive Leader who shares insights on how to leverage real-world evidence (RWE) in MSL activiti...

All About Thought Leader Liaison

05 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This weeks guest is Jim Hahn, Senior Business Director, Thought Leader Engagement at EMD Serono who discusses the role of the Thought Leader Liaison a...

Product Safety and its Role in Medical Affairs

29 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week's guest is Juan Daccach, MD, VP Global Product Safety at Merz Aesthetics who discusses Safety and its role in Medical/Product Safety and the...

The Future of MSL Roles: Skills and Competencies for Tomorrow’s Challenges

22 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week’s guest is Stephanie Otis, Vice President Global Medical Excellence at Ferring Pharmaceuticals discusses future trends in the MSL field in...

The Augmented MSL

15 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week's guest is Nandini Sabharwal, Director, Migraine and Women's Health, Field Medical Group at Pfizer and we discuss the role of artificial int...

Unlocking Success: The Power of Continuous Learning

08 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This weeks guest is John Pracyk, Chief Medical Safety Officer, at Olympus who discusses the importance of continuous learning for professional growth ...

Practice in Private…Rewarded in Public

01 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week is a solo episode, Tom Caravela, Founder and Managing Partner at The Carolan Group discusses the concept of what you practice in private, is...

Time Audit: YOUR Strategy for Time Management Success

24 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Patrina Pellett joins Tom Caravela to dive into time management strategies for MSLs and medical affairs professionals. They introduce...

The Evolving Role of Clinical Educators for Pharma and Field Medical

17 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Michelle Offner shares her journey from her previous roles to becoming a clinical educator. She delves into the responsibilities and ...

The Value of Social Listening for MSL Success

10 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

My guests this week are Vandana Grover, Sr Director, Head of Digital Strategy and Innovation at Eisai and Stevan Tomich, Lead Omni Channel Strategist ...

How to Build Scientific Credibility for Continuous Career Development

03 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

My guest this week is Ike Ogbaa, Vice President and Head of Medical Affairs who discusses How to Build Scientific Credibility for Continuous Career De...

How to Build a Modern Medical Affairs Organization

27 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Greg Christopherson to explore the evolving landscape of modern medical affairs organizations. They delve i...

Mindset: The ULTIMATE Key to Success in Your Life and Career

20 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Amy Misnick joins to discuss the power of mindset in both personal and professional spheres. Amy shares her journey from a successful...

Change Management: How Pharma SHOULD Handle Bad News

12 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Alicia Bullock to discuss change management within the pharmaceutical industry. Alicia shares her professional ...

The ART of Excellence... How to be a Rock Star MSL

06 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Cathy Andorfer joins Tom Caravela to discuss her new book and the journey of writing it. Cathy shares insights into her writing proce...

A Trip Around the MSL Insights Cycle

30 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Patrina Pellett and Richard Swank join Tom Caravela to explore the intricacies of the MSL insight cycle. They delve into the growth a...

Demystifying and Unpacking Omnichannel Engagement

23 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this week’s episode, Donnie Wooten, PharmD, Head of Global Field Medical Excellence at Organon and Kelly Lo, Global Field Medical Excellence at A...

Medical Affairs Fellowships: The What, the HOW and the WHY

16 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this week’s episode, Shani Park, Post Doctoral Fellow, Medical Science Liaison at Inizio Engage discusses her experience securing a Medical Affai...

Career Currency: The Key to Your Success

09 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this week’s episode, Rachel Couchenour, Vice President Global Medical Affairs at Travere Therapeutics, discusses the importance of building your ...

The Power of Purpose

02 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this week’s episode, Jill Donahue, Medical Affairs leader and author who discusses the power of purpose for MSLs and Medical Affairs professional...

The MSL Secret Weapon for Insightful Engagement

25 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this week’s episode, Mary Winkels, Global Director, Medical Affairs Training and Capability at Vertex Pharmaceuticals discusses the MSL secret ...

Never Split the Difference

18 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this weeks episode, Linda Traylor, VP, Head of Medical Excellence at Acceleration Point and Josh Yoder, Sr Medical Science Liaison at Aurinia, disc...

Job Search Mastery... How to WIN Your Dream Job

13 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela introduces his new book, "Job Search Mastery, How to Win Your Dream Job," outlining its purpose and key strategies for e...

Layoff Ready... How to Plan and Prepare for Potential Career Transition

04 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Chad Schroer, Senior Director, USMA Field Medical Excellence at BeiGene, we discuss strategies to prepare yourself for career transition – whether i...

SUPER MSL: The Quest to Become the TOP MSL on Your Team

28 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Daniel Snyder, Senior Medical Affairs & HEOR Leader, discusses the differentiators for MSLs that will make you stand out and become the top MSL on you...

From Medically Impossible to Medical MIRACLE

21 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Anthony Lee is the CEO of ZAP Mortgage, ex Military Special Forces and Best Selling author who tells his story of overcoming extreme odds to find unpr...

The Value of In-House Medical Affairs to the MSL

14 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Erlene Seymour, Medical Director, US Medical Affairs Hematology at BeiGene discusses the value of In House or HQ Medical Affairs to the MSL.

The Future MSL

07 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Eddie Power joins to discuss the future landscape of the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) role. The conversation delves into emerging tr...

Why Chasing Titles is Fools Gold

30 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Archie Stone, VP of Product Development at Aurinia Pharmaceuticals, to discuss the intricacies of titles in med...

The Increasing Complexity of TODAYS Interview Process

23 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Nabhan Islam joins Tom Caravela to discuss the evolving landscape of the job market and its impact on MSL interviews. Nabhan shares h...