MSL Talk

MSL Talk

MSL Talk, hosted by Tom Caravela, MSL Recruiter and Founder of The Carolan Group, offers insights for Medical Science Liaisons, aspiring MSLs, and Medical Affairs leaders.

Episodes

August 19, 2025 37 mins
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 fractional positions, highlighting how they benefit both job seekers and companies. The discussion covers the increase in these roles, company utilization of interim talent, disadvantages, and compensation expectations, offering negotiation tips for candidates. They also discuss the fut...
Mark as Played
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, emphasizing its application in measuring scientific ROI and share of scientific voice. The discussion highlights the balance of various metrics and how to build a business case for SMART metrics, especially for smaller or early-stage companies. The conversation covers insights versus...
Mark as Played
August 5, 2025 30 mins
In this episode, Tom Caravela, Conor McGladrigan, and Kevin Peterson discuss the evolving role of social media listening in Medical Affairs. They discuss the significance of social media listening for Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) and how insights can be leveraged to enhance medical strategies. The conversation covers engagement with Digital Opinion Leaders (DOLs) and the legal considerations for social media interactions. They h...
Mark as Played
In this episode, Tom Caravela, Sonika Garcia, and Suzi Fraze explore the intersection of medical anthropology and medical affairs. They discuss cultural competence versus cultural fluency, highlighting the impact of cultural contexts on scientific outcomes and communication. Through case studies, they examine cultural influences on medical decision-making and the risks of ignoring these aspects. The episode underscores the role of ...
Mark as Played
In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Allison Trucillo to discuss the journey of overcoming self-doubt and the inner critic. Allison shares her personal experiences and provides tools and strategies to combat negativity bias and foster an inner champion. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing negative thoughts and the role of daily habits and mindfulness in promoting positive self-talk. Practical advice is offer...
Mark as Played
In this episode, Tom Caravela warns job seekers about over negotiation and making unnecessary mistakes in the offer process. Tom debunks common myths and provides essential strategies for Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) when considering job offers. He stresses the importance of understanding "best and final" offers, knowing one's value, and evaluating compensation ranges. Tom highlights the role of attitude and professionalism in n...
Mark as Played
July 8, 2025 15 mins
In this episode, Tom Caravela reflects on the concepts of freedom and progress, providing a historical context for Independence Day and its relevance to personal goals. The discussion highlights the importance of discipline and establishing routines, while also addressing the benefits of reducing social media usage. Tom emphasizes the need for effective commitment management and the value of letting go of perfectionism to achieve p...
Mark as Played
June 27, 2025 38 mins
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 and discuss the many ways Medical Science Liaisons can improve their presentation skills through proven training methods and practices. The discussion highlights the evolution of MSL presentations as well as interview presentations emphasizing key components like virtual presence and p...
Mark as Played
In this episode, Tom Caravela and Alex Palumbo discuss the challenges faced by Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) to stay healthy with a crazy travel schedule and stay free from "MSL belly." They discuss strategies for overcoming unhealthy habits and maintaining healthy eating on the road. The episode offers practical tips for meal prepping, managing cravings, and staying hydrated during travels. Alex shares workout routines and gym o...
Mark as Played
June 17, 2025 34 mins
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 discussing the economic factors influencing job availability and the challenges job seekers face in this tough environment. Bridget shares valuable strategies for navigating the market, emphasizing the importance of networking, understanding hiring manager expectations, and demonstratin...
Mark as Played
June 10, 2025 25 mins
In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Joy Morrell to explore the multifaceted role of Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) in medical affairs. They discuss the critical importance of dialogue over monologue in MSL communication, emphasizing the need for both scientific expertise and soft skills development. Joy highlights the significance of active listening and posing key questions to enhance engagement. The conversation shifts to...
Mark as Played
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 begins with insights into Josh and Kirsten's backgrounds and networking perspectives. They emphasize the importance of authentic networking and overcoming fear, sharing strategies for building genuine connections and evolving professional relationships into friendships. Key communica...
Mark as Played
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 (DOLs) in Medical Affairs. Sponsored by Medical Watch, this episode explores why DOLs matter, how to identify the right ones, and what tools MSLs can use to engage them meaningfully. Paul breaks down the do’s and don’ts of digital engagement, shares real-world best practices, and offers ...
Mark as Played
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 Science Liaison (MSL). The conversation delves into the significance of personal branding and how MSLs can showcase their unique skills effectively. Hahn-Ey emphasizes the advantages of multilingualism and international experience, providing tips on tailoring resumes and interview respons...
Mark as Played
May 6, 2025 31 mins
In this episode, Tom Caravela and Patrina Pellett explore the highlights of the Fierce Pharma Engage 2025 conference. They discuss the conference's format, content, sessions, networking opportunities, and compare it to previous years. Keynote highlights and speaker impressions are shared, followed by a discussion on AI's future in the industry. The episode shares key conference takeaways and advice for medical affairs professionals...
Mark as Played
In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes renowned Entertainer, Magician, Escape Artist and Hypnotist Danny Zzzz who shares his journey from an unconventional background to GREAT success. The conversation begins with insights into the Danny's early life, challenges, and career transitions, including starting a tattoo business and the role of energy in career choices. They discuss breaking into entertainment, developing a unique charac...
Mark as Played
In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Lindsey Harrer to discuss the power of non traditional Key Opinion Leader (KOL) engagement for Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). They explore the differences in KOL interactions, strategies for aligning MSL objectives with KOL needs, and the importance of personalized communication. The conversation highlights compliance challenges in nontraditional KOL engagement and its future potential. ...
Mark as Played
In this episode, Tom Caravela and Mandy Krumnow explore the evolving landscape of medical affairs, highlighting its value and impact. They discuss what constitutes "true impact" within the field, supported by case studies showcasing successful initiatives. The conversation covers technological advancements and the challenges medical affairs faces, as well as future trends. Mandy shares insightful interview tips for candidates and e...
Mark as Played
April 1, 2025 32 mins
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 meeting are examined, such as impact and insights in Medical Affairs, Med Tech and Story Telling in Patient Centricity. Networking advice and conference planning tips are shared, alongside discussions on conference apps and predictions for next year's themes. The episode concludes w...
Mark as Played
In this episode, Tom Caravela and Sarah Snyder delve into the vital role of social media for Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). They discuss its evolution in medical affairs, platforms for professionals, and the benefits of social engagement for relationship building. Sarah offers insights on balancing personal and professional brands, best practices for engaging with healthcare professionals, and staying updated on medical advanceme...
Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce

    Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show

    The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Clay Travis and Buck Sexton tackle the biggest stories in news, politics and current events with intelligence and humor. From the border crisis, to the madness of cancel culture and far-left missteps, Clay and Buck guide listeners through the latest headlines and hot topics with fun and entertaining conversations and opinions.

    The Bobby Bones Show

    Listen to 'The Bobby Bones Show' by downloading the daily full replay.

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.