Stanford Department of Medicine proudly announces The Future of Medicine, a new podcast hosted by Euan Ashley, MB ChB, DPhil, a leader in translational medicine and chair of the department. The show brings the latest medical research to life through engaging, relatable conversations that connect with your everyday health experiences. Ashley sits down with world‑class clinicians, scientists, and innovators featured in our Medicine Grand Rounds series - the people shaping the next era of medicine - to pull back the curtain on breakthroughs, their clinical implications, and the human stories behind them.
From mental health breakthroughs to the transformative role of artificial intelligence in healthcare, The Future of Medicine explores topics spanning genomics, digital health, health equity, neuroscience, and care-system redesign. Each episode blends rigorous science with accessible storytelling, highlighting the journeys of the innovators behind the ideas and the societal forces at play. Discover more about the pilot episodes in The Future of Medicine's first season below.
Episode 1 | Dr Glaucomflecken on Comedy, Open Access, and the Future of Medical Communication | December 1
In this pilot episode, special guest and internet sensation William E. Flanary, MD, aka Dr Glaucomflecken, blends humor with hard-earned life lessons. He recounts his journey from medical student to ophthalmologist, cancer survivor, cardiac arrest patient, and now, physician-comedian and social media advocate.
Episode 2 | Sumbul Desai on Wearables, Hypertension Prediction, and the Patient-Physician Dyad | December 8
In this episode, special guest Sumbul Ahmad Desai, MD, Vice President of Health at Apple shares her remarkable journey from an Indian upbringing to leading innovative health technology initiatives at Apple. She discusses the importance of physician involvement in decision-making, the groundbreaking advancements in health tech, and the need for empathy in mentorship.
Episode 3 | Jennifer Doudna on CRISPR, One-Time Cures, and Science Communication | December 15
In this episode, Dr Ashley welcomes the groundbreaking scientist Jennifer Doudna, PhD, co-inventor of CRISPR technology and leader at the Innovative Genomics Institute. Dr. Doudna reflects on the incredible advancements in genome editing over the past decade, including the inspiring case of a young patient treated with a bespoke CRISPR therapy. She discusses the intersection of science and public policy, the potential for real-time CRISPR therapies, and the importance of collaboration in transforming healthcare.
Subscribe to The Future of Medicine everywhere you listen to podcasts and join us for Season 1 as we look ahead to what's possible and why it matters for you and your health. These conversations are designed to inspire informed health decisions, empower you with knowledge to improve your well-being, and spark positive change in your life and in your communities.
