MSL Talk

Latest Episodes:

Has the MSL Role Become Obsolete? Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Carolyn Reever joins the discussion about the evolving landscape of the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) role. They examine whether the MSL role is becoming obsolete amid changes in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors. The dialogue addresses the impact of AI on the role, including how AI tools are transforming productivity and what key skills future MSLs will require. They stress the importance of keeping up with technological advancements and forecast the future demand for MSLs. Carolyn shares her predictions for the MSL role over the next decade, concluding with final thoughts and reflections. (0:00) Introduction of guest and episode overview (0:55) Guest background: Carolyn Reever in medical affairs (2:07) Is the MSL role obsolete? (5:16) Evolution of the pharmaceutical and biotech industry (9:48) Impact of AI on the MSL role (12:35) AI tools and productivity changes (15:25) Key skills for future MSLs (19:12) Keeping pace with technology (22:42) Future demand for MSLs (25:20) Prediction for the MSL role in ten years (27:13) Final thoughts and closing remarks

Career Longevity in Medical Affairs: How to Stay Relevant for 20+ Years Jun 09, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Stacey Curtiss as they discuss her journey into medical affairs and share key insights from her early years as a Medical Science Liaison (MSL). They explore career progression and leadership roles, highlighting major shifts in the industry and the importance of staying relevant. Stacey emphasizes the need to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations and the role of relationship building in career growth. The conversation includes advice for MSLs aspiring to leadership positions and reflections on overcoming fear to seize opportunities. The episode concludes with career advice for her younger self, closing remarks, and congratulations on Stacey's career achievements. (0:00) Introduction and Stacey Curtiss' background (1:06) Breaking into medical affairs and early lessons as an MSL (6:02) Volunteering and gaining insights for career growth (8:14) Career progression to VP Medical Affairs (11:24) Leadership: The role of a leader as a filter (13:18) Major shifts in medical affairs over the past 20 years (16:11) Staying relevant in a changing industry (18:38) Importance of habits, routines, and hobbies (20:53) Embracing discomfort for career growth (22:36) The value of relationships in career development (25:27) Advice for aspiring MSL leaders (27:37) Advice to younger self: taking risks and overcoming self-doubt (28:50) Closing remarks and gratitude

The Proactive MSL: A Skill That Defines Top Performers Jun 02, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Laura Mease explore the concept of proactive versus reactive Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). They discuss the characteristics of proactive MSLs and the importance of building trust and overcoming a reactive mindset. The conversation includes early proactive approaches, growth mindset strategies, and a real-world example of proactive MSL success. They examine the risks of being reactive, emphasize the importance of pre-call planning, and highlight the need for anticipating healthcare provider needs. The episode also covers building internal partnerships, strategic use of insights, and habits of proactive MSLs, concluding with advice for reactive MSLs. (0:00) Introduction, podcast collaboration, and Laura Mease’s background (1:56) Listener shoutouts (2:26) What is a proactive MSL? (3:13) Proactive vs. reactive MSLs (4:36) Building trust and overcoming a reactive mindset (7:57) Early proactive approaches and growth mindset (10:42) Real-world example of proactive MSL success (12:56) Risks and consequences of being reactive (15:59) Pre-call planning and anticipating HCP needs (18:39) Building internal cross-functional partnerships (20:51) Time, effort, and strategic use of insights (24:49) Habits of proactive MSLs (26:51) Advice and final words for reactive MSLs (28:48) Closing remarks

Interview Blunders And Fails That Cost You The Job May 26, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Deanna Tucker delve into crucial job interview strategies and common pitfalls. They emphasize the significance of thorough research and preparation, and discuss avoiding first impression errors. The conversation includes practical advice for digital interviews and how to effectively answer the "Tell me about yourself" question. They explore the importance of enthusiasm, the impact of negative remarks, and how to balance confidence with arrogance. Nonverbal cues and dressing appropriately for casual settings are also covered. The episode concludes with guidance for those who've made mistakes and offers final encouragement and advice for job seekers. (0:00) Introduction, Deanna Tucker’s background, and episode topic (3:13) Common interview mistakes (5:32) Importance of research and preparation (8:02) First impression blunders (10:07) Digital interview tips (14:21) Importance of enthusiasm and energy (20:56) How to answer "Tell me about yourself" (27:15) Tips for answering "Tell me about yourself" (29:08) The impact of negative comments in interviews (30:50) Balancing confidence and arrogance (33:48) Importance of nonverbal cues (39:09) How to dress for interviews in casual environments (43:12) Advice for candidates who have made interview mistakes (45:44) Final advice and encouragement for job seekers (46:22) Conclusion and appreciation

Interactive Treatment Algorithms: The Future is HERE May 19, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela talks with Dr. Simon Chowdhury, a GU oncology expert, about the evolving cancer treatment landscape and challenges in keeping up with new data. They discuss differences between community and academic practices, limitations of traditional information sources, and the delay in clinical application of new data. Dr. Chowdhury shares a personal story about his mother's care and discusses managing the influx of oncology data. They explore designing an ideal physician learning experience, the role of user experience in medical platforms, and how Open Medicine is transforming physician learning and patient care. Opportunities for MSLs and pharma collaborations are also covered. This episode is sponsored by Open Medicine. Open Medicine is where leading doctors post Living Algorithms to share their knowledge. Instead of static diagrams in PDFs, Living Algorithms are mobile-first, interactive, and updated in real time as new clinical evidence emerges. Check it out at myopenmedicine.com (0:00) Introduction and guest background (1:23) Sponsor: Open Medicine (2:10) Dr. Chowdhury’s expertise in GU oncology (2:59) Evolution of cancer treatment and community vs. academic practice (5:29) How leading physicians stay updated with new data (8:56) Traditional information sources and their limitations (13:02) Lag between data release and clinical application (16:03) Personal story: Dr. Chowdhury’s mother’s care (21:21) Managing the volume of new oncology data (22:22) Simplifying information for younger generations (22:54) Designing an ideal physician learning experience (24:10) Importance of user experience in medical platforms (25:48) Introduction to living algorithms and benefits (28:58) How Open Medicine transforms physician learning (33:09) Impact of Open Medicine on patient care (35:33) Opportunities for MSLs and medical affairs with Open Medicine (37:56) Collaborating with pharma for impactful data (38:17) Invitation to visit myopenmedicine.com for more information

The 1 Habit That Changed Kobe Bryant's Life May 12, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela extends Mother's Day wishes and draws inspiration from Kobe Bryant to introduce free thinking. He explores meditation, quiet time, and managing distractions, emphasizing imagination, planning, and emotional processing. Tom discusses handling criticisms, recurring thoughts, and preparing for future events. He offers approaches to meditation, exercise, and integrating gratitude while avoiding negativity. Tips for starting quiet time and breathing exercises are shared. Tom underscores the importance of consistency, self-listening, and achieving breakthroughs for intentional living, concluding with reflections on finding peace. (0:00) Introduction, Mother's Day wishes, and inspiration from Kobe Bryant (0:54) The concept and benefits of free thinking (1:46) Overcoming intimidation about meditation (2:55) Personal benefits and impact of quiet time (3:52) Managing overstimulation and distractions (5:05) Imagination, planning, and emotional processing (8:14) Addressing criticisms and recognizing recurring thoughts (10:15) Anticipating and preparing for future events (11:23) Approaches to quiet time, meditation, and exercise (14:26) Integrating gratitude and avoiding negative thinking (18:39) Getting started with quiet time and breathing exercises (20:38) Consistency, self-listening, and achieving breakthroughs (23:06) Finding peace, intentional living, and closing remarks

300 Episodes of MSL Talk: 10 Truths Every MSL Should Know May 05, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela marks the milestone of episode 301 by delving into the evolving landscape of the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) role. He outlines 10 essential truths, highlighting the strategic shifts in the profession. Tom discusses how curiosity can serve as a competitive edge and stresses the importance of creating value before requesting time from stakeholders. The episode emphasizes gathering and reporting insights, taking ownership of one's territory, and the pivotal role of relationships. Communication is presented as a career multiplier, while adaptability is underscored as a core competency. Tom also explores the intentionality required for career growth, concluding with appreciation for the listeners. (0:00) Milestone episode introduction and significance of episode 301 (1:47) Overview of 10 MSL truths (2:46) The strategic evolution of the MSL role (4:39) Curiosity as a competitive advantage (6:35) Creating value before asking for time (8:54) The importance of gathering and reporting insights (11:41) Taking ownership of your territory (12:53) The critical role of relationships (15:29) Communication as a career multiplier (17:52) Metrics don't always equal value (20:00) Adaptability as a core competency (22:09) Career growth requires intention (25:26) Closing remarks and gratitude to listeners

From Stuck to Standout: The Real Path to Growth in Medical Affairs Apr 28, 2026

Show notes

In this milestone 300th episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Rachel Kennedy from Moderna to discuss her journey into medical affairs. Rachel shares her experiences as an MSL and highlights the role of curiosity in career advancement. They explore common causes of feeling stuck in the field, emphasizing patience and internal equity. Rachel stresses the importance of self-advocacy and effective communication in driving career growth. The conversation offers insights on standing out in a competitive market, handling frustration, and skill building during plateaus. Rachel provides advice for navigating challenging times and underscores the value of feedback and self-awareness. The episode concludes with gratitude to listeners. (0:00) 300th episode milestone, thanks to listeners, and guest introduction (1:16) Rachel Kennedy's background and role at Moderna (1:50) Rachel's career journey and transition into medical affairs (4:04) Rachel's experience as an MSL and career progression (7:38) The role of curiosity in career advancement (8:48) Causes of feeling stuck or plateaued in medical affairs (12:22) Importance of patience and internal equity (16:57) Advocating for oneself and the impact of communication (18:41) What drives career advancement beyond doing a good job (21:40) How to stand out in a competitive market (25:21) Handling frustration and the importance of taking a pause (28:36) Growth and skill building during career plateaus (30:31) Advice for navigating difficult times in career and life (32:36) Importance of feedback and self-knowledge (33:10) Closing remarks and gratitude to listeners

Best Athlete Available: How to Become the BEST in Your Field Apr 21, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Jeff Durr delve into the characteristics that distinguish top-performing athletes. They explore the "best athlete available" concept, examining the balance between innate talent and the development of consistent habits within structured systems. The discussion highlights the daily routines of high achievers, the acceptance of failure, and the role of resilience in building discipline. Jeff offers insights on avoiding mediocrity and living a regret-free life. The conversation further investigates the path to achieving elite status in any field, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and hard work. The episode concludes with reflections and future aspirations. (0:00) Introduction and Jeff Durr's background (3:08) Common traits of top-performing athletes (4:31) The "best athlete available" concept (5:59) Talent vs. habits, consistency, and systems (10:01) Daily habits of high performers (11:36) Accepting, overcoming failure, and building resilience (16:01) Building discipline (17:58) First steps to becoming the best athlete available (20:04) Avoiding mediocrity (22:07) Living a life with no regrets (24:51) What it takes to become elite in any field (26:09) The importance of perseverance and hard work (26:23) Closing remarks, future aspirations, and personal notes

How to Systematize KOL Engagement and Advocacy Apr 14, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela and Melanie Sillam explore the intricacies of establishing a formal Key Opinion Leader (KOL) engagement process for Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). They address the complexities involved in tracking KOL relationships and emphasize the need for a customized CRM system tailored to medical affairs. The discussion covers the architecture of a KOL engagement system, including team involvement and necessary infrastructure. They delve into identifying KOLs, setting annual goals, and the concept of a KOL advocacy score. The episode also examines the evolution of KOL relationships, gathering structured insights, and sharing them with leadership. It concludes with advice for medical affairs leaders and closing remarks. (0:00) Introduction, guest background, and shoutout (1:04) Sponsor: Fierce Pharma Engage (2:03) The need for a formal KOL engagement process (2:33) Challenges with tracking KOL relationships and data (3:13) Building and customizing a CRM for KOL engagement (5:04) Differences between commercial and medical CRM needs (5:42) Architecting the KOL engagement system and team involvement (7:03) Infrastructure and support for system implementation (7:42) Four-part KOL engagement system: Overview (8:05) Identifying KOLs and the role of expert mapping tools and vendors (10:22) Customizing data sources for organizational needs (11:15) Setting annual goals with KOLs and aligning expectations (13:08) Documenting goals in CRM and MSL accountability (16:08) KOL advocacy score: Definition, tracking, and prioritization (19:16) Evolution of KOL relationships and predefined advocacy categories (21:32) Structured insights, guided surveys, and challenges in insight gathering (23:27) Organizing, sharing, and measuring insights with leadership (26:39) Adoption, acceptance, and impact of the new CRM system (29:52) Progress, improvements, and advice for medical affairs leaders (32:30) Final thoughts, closing remarks, and audience thanks

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected