What if the biggest threat to our survival isn’t the next virus, but our failure to learn from the last one? In this episode, Dr. Michael Osterholm, Regents Professor and Director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) at the University of Minnesota, explains why America’s public health system is dangerously underprepared for the next major outbreak. He shares how misinformation and political interference have eroded confidence in science, leaving critical institutions like the CDC and NIH struggling to fulfill their missions. Dr. Osterholm discusses lessons from COVID-19 and why failing to apply them could cost millions of lives in the future. He also explores the promise of universal vaccines, the need for sustained investment in pandemic defense, and how rebuilding public trust starts with humility, transparency, and truth-telling. Tune in to hear what it will really take to prepare for “the big one. Resources Connect with and follow Dr. Michael Osterholm on LinkedIn. Follow the University of Minnesota on LinkedIn! Follow the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) on LinkedIn and visit their website! Learn more about the Vaccine Integrity Project here! Pick up any of Dr. Osterholm’s books here! Check out the Osterholm Update podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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