Pharmacist Diaries

From the sun-soaked hills of Tuscany to the halls of British pharmacy education, this week's episode features Craig Ndip. Craig Ndip is the Vice President of the British Pharmaceutical Students' Association (BPSA) and a fourth-year pharmacy student. He grew up in the beautiful hills of Tuscany, Italy, where he developed a love for food and landscapes. After moving to the UK as a teenager without knowing English, Craig overcame significant challenges to pursue his education. Alongside his academic pursuits, he found immense fulfillment in helping others through volunteering as a first aider, which sparked his passion for healthcare. Craig is working hard to learn everything he can about patient care, with the goal of becoming an exceptional healthcare professional who can make a difference in his community.Craig shares his remarkable journey of moving from Italy to the UK at age 16, overcoming language barriers, depression, and imposter syndrome to become a leader in pharmacy education. This isn't just a story about moving countries—it's about building a new family within pharmacy, turning strangers into lifelong friends, and discovering that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is start over.In This EpisodeCraig's emotional journey from Italy to the UK at 16 without knowing EnglishHow the initial isolation and language barrier led to depression and self-doubtThe breakthrough moment that changed his trajectoryFinding his path to pharmacy after originally planning to study medicineBuilding resilience through adaptation and stepping outside his comfort zoneHow joining university clubs (especially American football) helped him discover his talent for connecting with peopleHis journey from shy international student to BPSA Vice PresidentCraig's leadership philosophy of empowering othersPlans for his foundation year in split community and GP practiceJOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practiceTime management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilienceBehind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand buildingIf you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠!PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠CONNECT WITH CRAIG:Linkedin: Craig NdipJoin the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA) TODAY. You won’t regret it!OTHER LINKS:The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com

In Episode 3 of The Untold Stories of Pharmacy Students, we meet third-year student, Hikmat Kazeem, who's rewriting what success looks like in pharmacy education. Like many pharmacy students, Hikmat's path wasn't straightforward. After COVID-era predicted grades affected her medical school applications, she reluctantly considered pharmacy - despite a less-than-inspiring work experience placement that involved nothing but shelf cleaning. Today, she's BPSA's Western Area Coordinator and proving that sometimes the most challenging beginnings lead to the most inspiring journeys.This episode dives deep into the realities of pharmacy student life. Hikmat openly shares her experience with first-year exam failure, describing the raw emotions of staying in bed for three days and questioning her place in pharmacy. But it's what she did next that makes her story powerful - transforming that setback into motivation to ace her remaining seven exams.Beyond academics, Hikmat's story is a masterclass in building a balanced student life. As the only hijabi player on her university netball team, she's breaking barriers and showing how sports can be crucial for mental health during intense study periods. Her adventures extend globally - from a marketing internship in Hong Kong to upcoming medical volunteering in India - proving that pharmacy education can be a launch pad for diverse experiences.What sets this episode apart is Hikmat's refreshing perspective on the future. While many students feel pressured to have their entire career mapped out, she advocates for living in the present and exploring widely - whether that's earning a British Sign Language qualification or seeking international opportunities. Her message is clear: your pharmacy journey doesn't need to fit a traditional mould.JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practiceTime management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilienceBehind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand buildingIf you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠!PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠CONNECT WITH HIKMAT:Linkedin:@Hikmat KazeemInstagram: @HKazeem1xJoin the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA)TODAY. You won’t regret it!OTHER LINKS:The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do:Inplus Music Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.

In Episode 2 of The Untold Stories of Pharmacy Students, I sit down with Sanjida Hossain, a fourth-year Kingston pharmacy student who is transforming how pharmacy students connect, support each other, and build lasting communities. As BPSA's Southern Area Coordinator and Kingston Pharmacy Society's Treasurer, she's living proof that you don't need to wait until graduation to make an impact.In this raw and honest conversation, Sanjida opens up about waiting until third year to get involved ("I thought I wasn't interesting enough"), organising conferences that challenge gender health disparities, and building a pharmacy community that transcends borders. Whether you're feeling too shy to step up or wondering how to balance leadership with studies, this episode is your roadmap to finding your voice in pharmacy.From practical time management hacks to candid conversations about taking breaks after qualifying, Sanjida shares the kind of advice you won't find in your pharmacy textbooks. Plus, discover why sometimes the best career plans are the ones that leave room for adventure.Why This Episode Matters to Pharmacy Students:The Journey to Pharmacy Breaking cultural barriers as a Bangladeshi woman in healthcareWhy giving back drives her passionSupporting women in pharmacy leadershipLeadership & Community Building BPSA Southern Area Coordinator role breakdownManaging the Southern Area ConferenceHow to approach speakers and build professional networksReal Student Life Hacks Practical time management strategies that actually workBalancing multiple leadership roles with academicsTips for staying organised in final yearFuture Planning GoldWhy community pharmacy might be your perfect startCreative ways to combine travel with pharmacyThe power of locum work for flexibilityJOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY:This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share:Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practiceTime management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilienceBehind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand buildingIf you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠!PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS:The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer.⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠CONNECT WITH SANJIDA:Linkedin:Sanjida HossainInstagram: @sanjida_h123Join the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA)TODAY. You won’t regret it!OTHER LINKS:The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do:Inplus Music Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.

In this debut episode of The Untold Stories of Pharmacy Students Series, we sit down with Romoluwa ("Rommy") Akinnawonu, a remarkable third-year pharmacy student at Keele University who's making waves as BPSA's Engagement Officer.  Originally from Dublin and now based in East London, Rommy brings a fresh perspective to pharmacy education through her commitment to addressing health inequalities, particularly those affecting women and ethnic minorities. Her journey from a shy student to a confident leader epitomises the transformation possible when passion meets purpose. Through her role at BPSA, she's revolutionising how pharmacy students connect online, championing her "3Ps" motto - more pictures, more people, and more passion.  This episode explores her unique path through pharmacy school, from securing innovative internships in women's health and data science to balancing competitive cheerleading with academic excellence. Rommy shares candid insights about the evolving landscape of pharmacy education, the power of digital networking, and the importance of amplifying diverse voices in healthcare. Key Topics Covered: Journey from Dublin to London and finding her voice Discovering pharmacy and evolving interests through university years Experience with hospital placements and prescribing curriculum BPSA leadership role and digital engagement strategies Internships in women's health and health data research Time management and balancing multiple commitments JOIN MY NEWSLETTER COMMUNITY: This isn't your typical pharmacy newsletter - it's a weekly mentoring session delivered straight to your inbox, packed with actionable insights for ambitious pharmacy students. Each week, I share: Building multiple income streams while maintaining clinical practice Time management secrets and productivity hacks I swear by ⚡ Systems and strategies that keep it all running smoothly ⚙️ Personal reflections on growth, failure, and resilience Behind-the-scenes looks at podcast production and brand building If you are ready to think differently about your future in pharmacy, sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠! PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS: The Naked Pharmacy is a brand I LOVE and use daily. They are offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH ROMMY: Linkedin: Rommy Akinnawonu  Instagram: @rxmmy.ix Tiktok: @rxmmmy Join the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA) TODAY. You won’t regret it! OTHER LINKS: The music from this series has been created by a pharmacy student! BPSA’s president, Emeka Onwudiwe, is a talented student and incredible entrepreneur. I am so proud to share his music on my podcast. Go and check the music production company and the word that they do: Inplus Music  Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with the Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz, who's shaking things up in the pharmacy world! Named one of 2023's 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy, Swathi shares her fascinating journey from pharmacy school to becoming a pioneer in integrative medicine and healthcare consulting. With her PharmD from the Medical University of South Carolina and BA from Carleton College, Swathi has blazed quite a trail in pharmacy. She made history as the first U.S. pharmacist to complete a residency specialising in integrative medicine and preventative health. Add to that a biotech Medical Affairs fellowship and a Cornell nutrition certificate, and you've got someone who's seriously dedicated to expanding what's possible in pharmacy! Let’s talk about creating your own opportunities! Swathi teamed up with a mentor to create something totally new – the first-ever integrative medicine pharmacy residency. These days, Swathi's rocking it as a consultant and fractional executive in the healthtech and CPG world, while advising various organisations and teaching future pharmacists. Her career path shows just how many doors can open when you're willing to think outside the box! Swathi dropped some serious wisdom during our chat. Here are the golden nuggets: 1. Job Hunting Pro Tip: Those "required qualifications"? Think of them more like a wish list! If you've got transferable skills and enthusiasm, go for it. 2. Networking Made Simple: LinkedIn is your friend! Don't be shy about reaching out to people doing interesting things – the worst they can do is not respond. 3. Regular Check-ins: Take time every few months to reflect on what you're enjoying in your work and what you might want to change. 4. Creating Opportunities: Wherever you land, think about how you can create opportunities for others, especially students. 5. Transferable Skills Matter: Your pharmacy background is valuable in unexpected places – you just need to show people how your skills translate. HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT STARTING A PODCAST? Join our weekly newsletter where we pull back the curtain on our podcasting adventures – sharing everything from production hacks to scheduling secrets, marketing wins (and fails), and how to create & build your show while balancing a full life. Subscribe now and let's turn your podcasting dreams into reality. https://anisha-and-sunjay.kit.com/d2058726a3 SIGN UP to my PODCAST NEWSLETTER below so you’ll be the first to know when new episodes are being released. You’ll also receive regular inspiration, tips, tools, and free content. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://pharmacistdiaries.ck.page/newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS: The Naked Pharmacy is offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. 🛒 Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH SWATHI: Linkedin: ⁠Swathi Varanasi-Diaz⁠ Instagram: @⁠Doctorswathi⁠ Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.

Scott Stewart is the Vice President of Clinical Services at Pharmcare USA, where he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in growing the clinical services team from fewer than 10 consultants to over 60, while maintaining an impressive turnover rate of less than 5% over a decade. His journey in pharmacy began in 2011 as a consultant pharmacist in long-term care, and despite his rise to executive leadership, he continues to maintain an active role in direct patient care. Alongside his primary role, Scott is the founder of RebelRx, a company dedicated to empowering healthcare professionals to find success, joy, and fulfillment in their careers. In this inspiring podcast episode, Scott takes us through his unexpected journey into pharmacy, influenced by his educator parents and early experiences in community pharmacies. He provides a comprehensive look into the world of long-term care pharmacy, explaining how it differs from traditional retail and hospital settings. What makes this episode particularly valuable is Scott's candid discussion about the evolution of his career from clinical practice to leadership. He shares authentic insights into how he maintains connection with patient care despite his executive responsibilities, emphasising the importance of staying grounded in day-to-day operations. HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT LIFE OUTSIDE THE TRADITIONAL 9-5? Are you a pharmacist dreaming of: - Working on your own terms? - Achieving location independence? - Building financial freedom? I've been there. That's why I'm sharing my journey from traditional 9-5 pharmacist to creating a life of freedom and fulfillment. In this weekly newsletter, I'll be opening up about my transition to unconventional pharmacy, practical tips for working on your own terms, strategies for financial independence, and our family's adventures in homeschooling and world travel. Ready to reimagine what's possible in your pharmacy career and life? Sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠! HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT STARTING A PODCAST? Sign up to our FREE community called Behind The Mic!  We are excited to engage with you and provide you with the support & guidance you need to get started.  Register here: https://behindthemic.circle.so/checkout/basic-membership SIGN UP to my NEWSLETTER below so you’ll be the first to know when new episodes are being released. You’ll also receive regular inspiration, tips, tools, and free content. ⁠⁠⁠https://pharmacistdiaries.ck.page/newsletter⁠⁠⁠ PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS: The Naked Pharmacy is offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🎙️ Audiio: We used to spend (waste) ages looking for free royalty free music on the internet. If you’ve ever tried to find images, music or video that is unconditionally 100% free, you’ll know how difficult it is. We now use Audiio for all our music.  Use this⁠⁠ ⁠link⁠⁠⁠ to get 70% off your first year of Audiio pro 🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. 🛒 Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH SCOTT: Linkedin: Scott Stewart RebelRx PharmcareUSA Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.

In this special episode for World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, we welcome Dr. Grace Barnes, a specialty registrar in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, for an insightful discussion about her journey in medicine and her work in microbiology. Grace shares her path from studying medicine at Oxford University to her current role, including her formative experiences during medical electives in Australia and Hong Kong that sparked her interest in global health. She offers a fascinating glimpse into her daily work as a microbiologist, explaining how she bridges the gap between laboratory science and clinical care while collaborating with biomedical scientists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to manage complex infections. The conversation explores the crucial role of multidisciplinary teamwork in treating antibiotic-resistant infections, with Grace highlighting specific examples of how collaboration between microbiologists and pharmacists leads to better patient outcomes. This episode provides valuable insights into the specialised world of clinical microbiology and infectious diseases, while highlighting the critical importance of collaborative healthcare in addressing modern medical challenges. HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT LIFE OUTSIDE THE TRADITIONAL 9-5? Are you a pharmacist dreaming of: - Working on your own terms? - Achieving location independence? - Building financial freedom? I've been there. That's why I'm sharing my journey from traditional 9-5 pharmacist to creating a life of freedom and fulfillment. In this weekly newsletter, I'll be opening up about my transition to unconventional pharmacy, practical tips for working on your own terms, strategies for financial independence, and our family's adventures in homeschooling and world travel. Ready to reimagine what's possible in your pharmacy career and life? Sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠! HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT STARTING A PODCAST? Sign up to our FREE community called Behind The Mic!  We are excited to engage with you and provide you with the support & guidance you need to get started.  Register here: https://behindthemic.circle.so/checkout/basic-membership SIGN UP to my NEWSLETTER below so you’ll be the first to know when new episodes are being released. You’ll also receive regular inspiration, tips, tools, and free content. ⁠⁠⁠https://pharmacistdiaries.ck.page/newsletter⁠⁠⁠ PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS: The Naked Pharmacy is offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🎙️ Audiio: We used to spend (waste) ages looking for free royalty free music on the internet. If you’ve ever tried to find images, music or video that is unconditionally 100% free, you’ll know how difficult it is. We now use Audiio for all our music.  Use this⁠⁠ ⁠link⁠⁠⁠ to get 70% off your first year of Audiio pro 🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. 🛒 Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH GRACE: Linkedin: Grace Barnes ⁠⁠⁠Donate⁠⁠⁠ to antibiotic guardians in Uganda as part of this series for World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.

In this World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week episode, we meet Bee Yean Ng, the lead antimicrobial stewardship pharmacist at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust. Starting her journey in Malaysia and completing her pharmacy degree through a partnership with the University of Strathclyde, Bee shares her transition from community pharmacy training to hospital practice. Despite initial challenges in making this sector switch, her positive mindset and flexibility to relocate helped her seize new opportunities. During her foundational years at Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, Bee worked under the mentorship of Claire Brandish and Kate Russell-Hobbs, who helped shape her clinical development. Bee's career took an international turn when she became involved with the Commonwealth Partnership for Antimicrobial Stewardship grant, working between the UK and Uganda. This experience, combined with the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer's Global Health Fellowship, sparked her passion for global health and led to her first publication. Now at Oxford, she leads a partnership with Kilifi County Referral Hospital in Kenya, demonstrating her growth from team member to project leader. HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT LIFE OUTSIDE THE TRADITIONAL 9-5? Are you a pharmacist dreaming of: - Working on your own terms? - Achieving location independence? - Building financial freedom? I've been there. That's why I'm sharing my journey from traditional 9-5 pharmacist to creating a life of freedom and fulfillment. In this weekly newsletter, I'll be opening up about my transition to unconventional pharmacy, practical tips for working on your own terms, strategies for financial independence, and our family's adventures in homeschooling and world travel. Ready to reimagine what's possible in your pharmacy career and life? Sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠! HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT STARTING A PODCAST? Sign up to our FREE community called Behind The Mic!  We are excited to engage with you and provide you with the support & guidance you need to get started.  Register here: https://behindthemic.circle.so/checkout/basic-membership SIGN UP to my NEWSLETTER below so you’ll be the first to know when new episodes are being released. You’ll also receive regular inspiration, tips, tools, and free content. ⁠⁠⁠https://pharmacistdiaries.ck.page/newsletter⁠⁠⁠ PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS: The Naked Pharmacy is offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🎙️ Audiio: We used to spend (waste) ages looking for free royalty free music on the internet. If you’ve ever tried to find images, music or video that is unconditionally 100% free, you’ll know how difficult it is. We now use Audiio for all our music.  Use this⁠⁠ ⁠link⁠⁠⁠ to get 70% off your first year of Audiio pro 🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. 🛒 Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH BEE: Linkedin: Bee Yean Ng ⁠⁠⁠Donate⁠⁠⁠ to antibiotic guardians in Uganda as part of this series for World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.

In this World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week episode, Neha Voralia shares her journey from community pharmacy to becoming an advanced anti-infectives pharmacist.  Starting at Northampton General Hospital, she discovered her passion for antimicrobial stewardship through working with complex diabetic foot infections and surgical patients. Neha discusses her transition to paediatric antimicrobial stewardship at Great Ormond Street Hospital, highlighting the unique challenges of managing resistant infections in children, from dosing complexities to medication adherence. Now working at Buckinghamshire NHS Trust, she reflects on the evolving nature of antimicrobial pharmacy and her aspirations in infectious diseases. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Antimicrobial stewardship requires extensive knowledge of bacteria, resistance patterns, and complex patient factors. Paediatric antimicrobial management presents unique challenges, from dose calculations to medication adherence strategies. The role extends beyond clinical work to include guideline development, infection prevention, and regional collaboration. Tertiary centers manage particularly complex cases where standard guidelines may not apply. Professional development opportunities in antimicrobial stewardship include research, conference presentations, and global health initiatives. HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT LIFE OUTSIDE THE TRADITIONAL 9-5? Are you a pharmacist dreaming of: - Working on your own terms? - Achieving location independence? - Building financial freedom? I've been there. That's why I'm sharing my journey from traditional 9-5 pharmacist to creating a life of freedom and fulfillment. In this weekly newsletter, I'll be opening up about my transition to unconventional pharmacy, practical tips for working on your own terms, strategies for financial independence, and our family's adventures in homeschooling and world travel. Ready to reimagine what's possible in your pharmacy career and life? Sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠! HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT STARTING A PODCAST? Sign up to our FREE community called Behind The Mic!  We are excited to engage with you and provide you with the support & guidance you need to get started.  Register here: https://behindthemic.circle.so/checkout/basic-membership SIGN UP to my NEWSLETTER below so you’ll be the first to know when new episodes are being released. You’ll also receive regular inspiration, tips, tools, and free content. ⁠⁠⁠https://pharmacistdiaries.ck.page/newsletter⁠⁠⁠ PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS: The Naked Pharmacy is offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🎙️ Audiio: We used to spend (waste) ages looking for free royalty free music on the internet. If you’ve ever tried to find images, music or video that is unconditionally 100% free, you’ll know how difficult it is. We now use Audiio for all our music.  Use this⁠⁠ ⁠link⁠⁠⁠ to get 70% off your first year of Audiio pro 🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. 🛒 Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH NEHA: Linkedin: Neha Voralia ⁠⁠⁠Donate⁠⁠⁠ to antibiotic guardians in Uganda as part of this series for World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.

In this special episode of Pharmacist Diaries, recorded live during World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, I welcome back Claire Brandish, a distinguished leader in antimicrobial stewardship and global health. Claire Brandish currently works as the Lead Anti-Infectives pharmacist at Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust and Senior Antimicrobial Resistance Technical Advisor for the Commonwealth Pharmacist Association. In her role, she supports the Fleming funded Commonwealth Partnerships for Antimicrobial Stewardship Scheme (CwPAMS). As a Chief Pharmaceutical Officer's Global Health Fellow, Claire has successfully delivered three CwPAMS projects between the NHS and health-partners in the UK and Uganda. Named a "Woman to Watch" in 2021 by the Pharmaceutical Journal, Claire works as an independent prescriber and actively participates in regular antimicrobial stewardship ward rounds as part of the multidisciplinary team. Key Takeaways - Global health partnerships offer valuable opportunities for professional growth and knowledge exchange - Success in healthcare leadership requires continuous learning, mentorship, and willingness to step outside comfort zones - Effective antimicrobial stewardship requires collaboration across multiple healthcare sectors and disciplines - Personal development and career progression often involve overcoming challenges and maintaining resilience HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT LIFE OUTSIDE THE TRADITIONAL 9-5? Are you a pharmacist dreaming of: - Working on your own terms? - Achieving location independence? - Building financial freedom? I've been there. That's why I'm sharing my journey from traditional 9-5 pharmacist to creating a life of freedom and fulfillment. In this weekly newsletter, I'll be opening up about my transition to unconventional pharmacy, practical tips for working on your own terms, strategies for financial independence, and our family's adventures in homeschooling and world travel. Ready to reimagine what's possible in your pharmacy career and life? Sign up 👉⁠⁠ ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠! HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT STARTING A PODCAST? Sign up to our FREE community called Behind The Mic!  We are excited to engage with you and provide you with the support & guidance you need to get started.  Register here: https://behindthemic.circle.so/checkout/basic-membership SIGN UP to my NEWSLETTER below so you’ll be the first to know when new episodes are being released. You’ll also receive regular inspiration, tips, tools, and free content. ⁠⁠⁠https://pharmacistdiaries.ck.page/newsletter⁠⁠⁠ PARTNERSHIPS and DISCOUNTS: The Naked Pharmacy is offering my podcast listeners a 20% discount on all their products. Use discount code PD20 at checkout to receive the offer. ⁠⁠⁠https://www.thenakedpharmacy.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🎙️ Audiio: We used to spend (waste) ages looking for free royalty free music on the internet. If you’ve ever tried to find images, music or video that is unconditionally 100% free, you’ll know how difficult it is. We now use Audiio for all our music.  Use this⁠⁠ ⁠link⁠⁠⁠ to get 70% off your first year of Audiio pro 🚀 Check out our Amazon storefront dedicated to podcasting gear! We will keep adding/reviewing the list but there’s a selection of microphones, audio interfaces, and more to help you elevate your podcasting game. 🛒 Explore Our Storefront⁠⁠ ⁠Here⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH CLAIRE: LinkedIn: Claire Brandish ⁠⁠⁠Donate⁠⁠⁠ to antibiotic guardians in Uganda as part of this series for World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) Follow me on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ My Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and/or⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Feel free to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite podcast platform so you can be notified when a new episode is released or leave a review on apple podcasts. If you have any suggestions for guests you want me to talk to or if you’d like to come on yourself, please feel free to contact me via social media, or email at info@pharmacistdiaries.com.