Infectious IDeas
You are listening to Infectious IDeas, a podcast presented by the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), that goes beyond the science to explore the personal stories behind the people doing the work. Each episode features thought-provoking conversations with inspiring leaders and humble heroes making a powerful impact on public health. Through their experiences, we uncover the human side of infectious disease prevention and treatment—all driven by a shared vision of healthier lives for all.
Infectious IDeas
From Shark Dreams to Global Health with Craig Spencer, MD, MPH
In this episode, Marla Dalton, PE, CAE, and William Schaffner, MD, talk with Craig Spencer, MD, MPH, emergency physician and global health expert, about what it takes to lead in times of crisis. From treating Ebola patients in Guinea to navigating COVID-19 in New York, he reflects on the power of empathy, the importance of cultural understanding, and the pursuit of health equity. He also shares the personal sacrifices behind public service—and why the lessons of past pandemics must not be forgotten.
Show notes
Associate professor at Brown University School of Public Health, Spencer has nearly 2 decades of experience in global health and humanitarian response, having worked on critical public health issues across Africa, Southeast Asia, and beyond, including leading epidemiological responses during the West African Ebola outbreak. His work focuses on the historical foundations of public health, humanitarian response, and pandemic preparedness. His writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, The New England Journal of Medicine, The Washington Post and more. He is a life member of the Council on Foreign Relations and serves on the Board of Advisors for Doctors Without Borders USA.
