MSL Talk

Latest Episodes:

YAY! I'm an MSL…Now What? May 25, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Julie Chen shares her journey transitioning to an MSL role at Janssen, highlighting initial challenges and the significance of training and KOL engagement. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships with teammates and mentors, while discussing the adaptation to virtual interactions during COVID-19 and its effects on healthcare provider engagements. Julie delves into the role of emotional intelligence in fostering strong MSL relationships and shares resources for maintaining relevance. She provides practical advice for new MSLs in their first 90 days, including re-strategizing and managing expectations, and concludes with insights on the evolving landscape of MSL interactions.

Julie Chen, Sr. Medical Science Liaison at Janssen, shares her experience as a new MSL. What’s worked and what advice she has for others.

Julie discusses…

👉 Tips for successful training and certification

👉 The importance of being collaborative

👉 Insight on some tools and resources that may be helpful

👉 How to approach KOL engagement as a new MSL

👉 Advice for new and current MSLs

The podcast is available through the links below:

️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ Stitcher: https://lnkd.in/eqB-2wb

Now on YouTube Please subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS7XTUuk1XF5Tm5InADY6cA

Now on Instagram Please subscribe:

https://www.instagram.com/msl_talk_podcast/

(0:00) Introduction with guest Julie Chen and social media reminder (1:14) Julie's career transition to Janssen and MSL Talk live announcement (5:13) Julie's initial challenges as a new MSL (7:40) Training importance and KOL engagement preparation tips (13:42) Teammate and mentor relationship-building (19:49) Navigating the MSL role and adapting to virtual interactions during COVID-19 (23:03) Impact of COVID-19 on healthcare providers and MSL interactions (24:30) Emotional intelligence in MSL relationships (26:11) Resources for MSLs to maintain relevance (29:47) Advice for new MSLs in the first 90 days (32:14) Re-strategizing after initial months and managing expectations (34:10) Sponsor: MSL Talk Live on Clubhouse Announcement (34:58) Closing remarks and call to action

My GOAL is to be a Medical Science Liaison May 18, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Jeremy McLemore shares his inspiring journey from pharmaceutical sales to becoming a Medical Science Liaison (MSL). Jeremy discusses his transition into the MSL role, detailing how he discovered the position and pursued it despite setbacks. He reflects on his experiences at Bristol Myers Squibb and AbbVie, highlighting the importance of networking, adaptability, and resilience in career progression. Jeremy also compares sales and MSL roles, offering insights into the unique challenges of each. He concludes with valuable advice for aspiring MSLs and shares his future goals.

Jeremy McLemore, Medical Science Liaison at AbbVie, discusses how his goal was to be an MSL and how he got there.

Jeremy shares….

How he approached his career from PharmD onward

The importance of being flexible and adaptable

Why it makes sense to consider a “starter” Industry role

How sales and field medical affairs differ (and how they are alike)

Advice for new and current MSLs:

The podcast is available through the links below:

️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ Stitcher: https://lnkd.in/eqB-2wb

Now on YouTube Please subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS7XTUuk1XF5Tm5InADY6cA

Now on Instagram Please subscribe:

https://www.instagram.com/msl_talk_podcast/

(0:00) Introduction of Jeremy McLemore and his journey to becoming an MSL (1:00) Jeremy's background and transition from pharmaceutical sales to MSL (2:02) Discovering the MSL role and pursuing a career in it (4:33) Overcoming setbacks and securing an internship at Bristol Myers Squibb (6:28) Transition to sales role at AbbVie and its impact on career development (9:41) Networking and adaptability as key factors in career progression (12:00) Gaining valuable skills and maintaining MSL goals while in sales roles (17:41) Applying for MSL roles, handling rejections, and securing a position at AbbVie (20:33) Leadership's support and the importance of resilience in career advancement (26:19) Insights on the significance of networking and maintaining a good reputation (29:24) Comparing sales and MSL roles and the unique challenges of each (32:39) Final advice for those aspiring to become MSLs (34:31) Jeremy McLemore's future goals and closing remarks

From Data Disseminator to Trusted Advisor May 11, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Chad Fellers shares insights from his experience as an MSL, highlighting his team's success strategies during COVID-19. He discusses the evolving role of MSLs as trusted advisors and offers advice on how to measure and enhance MSL value. Chad explores the future of Key Opinion Leader (KOL) engagement and the influence of digital platforms, as well as adjustments in travel and administrative duties. He emphasizes the importance of active listening and provides tips for MSLs to build strong advisor relationships. The episode also touches on Chad's personal interests, including streaming favorites and dietary changes influenced by documentaries.

Learn about how MSLs go from data disseminators to trusted advisors in my conversation with Chad Fellers, Director of Medical Science Liasons at Harmony Biosciences. 

In this episode we discuss:

The success of his team despite COVID.
The unique approach their team uses in engaging their KOLs.
Measuring and assessing value from an MSL perspective.
His stance in leading his MSL team.
The future of KOL engagement for MSLs.
Effect of the change of less travel to MSLs.
How it’s going to look like as things open up.
Advice for MSLs to stay focused, on track, and continue to be a trusted advisor.

The podcast is available through the links below:

️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ Stitcher: https://lnkd.in/eqB-2wb

Now on YouTube Please subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS7XTUuk1XF5Tm5InADY6cA

Now on Instagram Please subscribe:

https://www.instagram.com/msl_talk_podcast/

(0:00) Introduction of Chad Fellers and episode overview (1:21) Chad Fellers introduces himself and his role in MSL (2:04) Chad’s MSL team success and strategies during COVID (7:47) Measuring MSL value and transitioning to trusted advisors (18:20) Future of KOL engagement and impact of digital platforms (22:10) Adjustments in MSL travel and administrative tasks (23:43) Anticipating the return to field engagements (26:00) Tips for MSLs to become trusted advisors (26:38) The importance of active listening for MSLs (27:57) Personal interests: Streaming favorites and documentaries (30:37) Reflecting on dietary changes after watching documentaries (31:00) Closing remarks and future episode invitation (31:49) Sponsor: Name (32:00) Podcast subscription reminder and call to action

MSL Career Progression: Titles, Comp, Levels, Promotions…YUP, all that! May 04, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Bridget Rasmussen joins Tom Caravela to delve into the complexities of MSL career progression. Bridget shares her insights on the variability of title standards and emphasizes the value of work over titles. The discussion covers the relationship between compensation and titles, advising on evaluating opportunities beyond just titles. Bridget highlights the importance of recruiters, periodic interviews, and self-assessment in career advancement. The episode also explores strategies for promotions, experience requirements for leadership roles, and hiring trends in both big and small pharma. Networking emerges as a crucial element for overcoming barriers and fostering career growth.

Bridget Rasmusson, Director of Client Services at The Carolan Group discusses MSL Career Progression: Titles, Comp, Levels, and Promotions.

Learn about….

MSL Titles and different levels
The compensation factor
Getting promoting and how to position yourself
How to know if you are getting paid fairly
What career options exist and how to break the “experience” barrier

The podcast is available through the links below:

️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ Stitcher: https://lnkd.in/eqB-2wb

Now on YouTube
Please subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS7XTUuk1XF5Tm5InADY6cA

Now on Instagram
Please subscribe: https://www.instagram.com/msl_talk_podcast/

(0:00) Introduction and guest Bridget Rasmussen (1:30) Bridget's background and experience in MSL leveling (4:43) Variability in title standards and importance of work over titles (8:14) Correlation between MSL compensation and titles (10:22) Evaluating MSL opportunities beyond titles (12:12) Determining fair MSL compensation (15:27) The role of recruiters in MSL career advancement (16:50) The value of periodic interviews for MSLs (18:23) Exploring career options and self-assessment for MSLs (22:52) Strategies for MSL promotion (27:59) Experience requirements for MSL leadership roles (31:28) Hiring trends in big pharma vs small pharma (34:11) Overcoming experience barriers for MSL promotions (35:55) Networking and its importance for MSL career growth (36:49) Closing remarks and call to action

MSL Field Sanity: Top 10 Tips for Field Survival Apr 27, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Maria Urso joins Tom Caravela to delve into the challenges and strategies for maintaining health as a traveling Medical Science Liaison (MSL). They explore practical advice for healthy eating on the road, managing alcohol intake, and staying hydrated. The conversation highlights the importance of staying active and offers tips for incorporating exercise into a busy travel schedule. Maria and Tom also discuss improving sleep quality using meditation apps and finding a balance between work and personal life. The episode emphasizes the power of consistent small improvements and concludes with expressions of gratitude.

Maria Urso, Director, Medical Affairs Field Team at Exact Sciences discusses MSL Field Sanity: Top 10 Tips for Field Survival

Maria discusses the importance of:

Nutrition
Hydration
Sleep (and how to get it)
Exercise
And a whole lot more

The podcast is available through the links below:
️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn
️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz
️ Stitcher: https://lnkd.in/eqB-2wb

Now on YouTube
Please subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS7XTUuk1XF5Tm5InADY6cA

Now on Instagram
Please subscribe:
https://www.instagram.com/msl_talk_podcast/

MSL Talk is a podcast that features helpful information for current Medical Science Liaisons, Medical Affairs leaders, job seekers looking to break into the pharmaceutical industry in their first MSL role as well as anyone interested in hearing good industry conversation and medical affairs discussions.

(0:00) Introduction of Maria Urso and episode topic (0:40) Conversation about LinkedIn, candy discussion, and Tom's mullet (2:56) Introduction to MSL field survival topic and Maria's background (7:39) Strategies for healthy eating and minimizing processed foods on the road (12:33) Managing alcohol consumption and prioritizing hydration (19:32) Tips for staying active and incorporating exercise while traveling (23:54) Encouragement for listeners working out to the podcast (24:40) Starting and maintaining an exercise routine on the road (27:06) Improving sleep quality and utilizing meditation apps for better rest (34:13) Finding balance between work and personal life as a traveling MSL (40:12) Emphasizing consistent small improvements (42:25) Closing remarks and gratitude

From Clinical to Medical Device MSL and Beyond Apr 20, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Maria Abunto joins Tom Caravela to discuss her journey from clinical practice to becoming a successful Medical Science Liaison (MSL) in the medical device industry. Maria shares insights on why clinicians are well-suited for MSL roles and the importance of mentors and career coaches. The conversation delves into transitioning within MSL roles, adapting to the pandemic's impact, and the evolving future of MSL work. Maria offers valuable advice for aspiring MSLs, touching on changes in metrics and KPIs. The episode concludes with a celebration of International MSL Day and a call for listener feedback.

Check out my latest podcast with Maria Abunto, Medical Science Liaison at Exact Sciences who discusses her path from clinician to a Medical Device MSL and beyond.

Maria shares….

What is a Medical Device MSL
How are Med Device MSLs different than therapeutic MSLs
Why is it so important to be organized for territory excellence
Advice for MSLs now and for the future

The podcast is available through the links below:

️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ Stitcher: https://lnkd.in/eqB-2wb

Now on YouTube Please subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS7XTUuk1XF5Tm5InADY6cA

Now on Instagram Please subscribe:
https://www.instagram.com/msl_talk_podcast/

(0:00) Introduction of guest Maria Abunto and podcast housekeeping (0:39) Catching up with Maria Abunto and career background (2:25) Transition from clinical practice to industry and why clinicians make good MSLs (5:54) The role of mentors, career coaches, and the role of a medical device MSL (10:26) Transitioning within MSL roles and finding the right job fit (14:46) MSL success advice and navigating the pandemic (19:28) The future of MSL work and changes post-pandemic (24:49) Adjustments in MSL metrics and KPIs (25:22) Advice for younger or aspiring MSLs and celebrating International MSL Day (27:10) Closing remarks, subscription, and feedback request

Repackage what you have for what you want Apr 13, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Cherie Hyder shares her journey from the FDA to the industry, discussing the transition and how to enhance skills for a successful MSL career. She emphasizes the importance of documenting experience and understanding the MSL role, highlighting the MSL capability continuum and certification programs. Cherie discusses the significance of soft skills and digital proficiency, along with predictions for the post-pandemic MSL landscape. She offers insights into effective email communication, evolving metrics, and the critical role of insight gathering. The episode wraps up with best practices for post-meeting note-taking and career development strategies.

Check out my latest podcast with Cherie Hyder, Medical Excellence at Biohaven who discusses how to repackage what you have for what you want.

Cherie shares….

How to position yourself for MSL roles

Tool and resources to be aware of

How to showcase important skills and traits

Certification programs and if they are worth it

Mandatory skills for the MSL of the future

The podcast is available through the links below:

️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ Stitcher: https://lnkd.in/eqB-2wb

Now on YouTube Please subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS7XTUuk1XF5Tm5InADY6cA

Now on Instagram Please subscribe:

https://www.instagram.com/msl_talk_podcast/

(0:00) Introduction and guest welcome (1:01) Sheree Hyder's background and transition from FDA to industry (4:21) Enhancing skills and positioning for an industry role (7:50) Documenting experience and understanding the MSL role (11:19) Utilizing the MSL capability continuum and value of certification programs (17:21) Highlighting soft and digital/virtual skills (21:41) Predictions and adaptations for post-pandemic MSL work (23:36) Effective email communication and adapting to preferred methods (25:51) Evolving metrics, KPIs, and importance of insight gathering (27:49) Best practices for post-meeting note-taking and career development (30:42) Closing remarks and outro

MSL Career Options: The transition from Field Medical to Medical Director Apr 06, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela talks with Josh Corriveau about his journey from Medical Science Liaison to Medical Director. Josh shares insights into securing a medical director role and outlines the responsibilities involved. He discusses the essential skills and transferable competencies that facilitate this career advancement, emphasizing the importance of patient care. Josh addresses challenges faced by non-MD candidates and explores opportunities within the field. The conversation extends to the differences between in-house and virtual roles, highlighting the significance of scientific expertise. Josh concludes with advice for field medical professionals navigating the post-COVID landscape, encouraging strategic resourcefulness.

My guest today is Josh Corriveau, the Global Medical Affairs Director at Leo Pharma. We discuss the potential to make a career transition from MSL to Medical Director.

In this episode we discuss:

The transition from field medical to a medical director
How Josh got the job and the responsibilities as a medical director
What skills are mandatory to be considered for these types of roles
Many Medical Director roles require an MD, would he say it makes it a lot harder if you are a Ph.D. or PharmD?
His greatest challenges when transitioning into the Medical Director role
Are all Medical Director roles in-house or can some of these roles be field-based?
His advice to those in field medical transitioning out of COVID to field visit or hybrid of face to face and virtual interactions

(0:00) Introduction and guest overview (1:01) Guest introduction and background; Transitioning to medical director (3:00) Securing and responsibilities of a medical director role (6:59) Skill sets and transferable skills from MSL to medical director (10:24) Focus on patient care and attractiveness for a medical director role (14:32) Challenges for non-MD candidates and job opportunities (17:04) Challenges and strategic resourcefulness in a medical director role (20:10) In-house vs. virtual roles and scientific expertise (23:09) Transitioning from MSL to medical director; Future career aspirations (25:33) Advice for field medical professionals in the post-COVID era (27:26) Closing remarks and call to action

The Path from Clinical Practice to Field Medical (MSL, CSL or CPL) Mar 30, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Jessica Johnson and Whitney Theiss from Neurocrine Biosciences join Tom Caravela to explore the transition from clinical roles to field medical positions, focusing on the Clinical Practice Liaison (CPL) role. They discuss the responsibilities and skills required for CPLs, comparing them to those of Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs). The episode delves into the challenges CPLs face, performance evaluation, and career progression, including the impact of remote work trends. Jessica and Whitney offer valuable advice for clinicians considering a transition, emphasizing the significance of emotional intelligence. The episode wraps up with key takeaways and closing thoughts.

My guests today are Jessica Johnson Director, Clinical Practice Liaisons and Whitney Tice, Clinical Practice Liaison at Neurocrine and we discuss the path from clinical practice to Field Medical.

In this episode we discuss:

Jessica and Whitney’s background
The transition from clinician into industry
Why are clinicians good candidates for Field Medical positions
What is a clinical practice liaison, responsibilities and difference from an MSL
What are the skill sets they look for in a CPL when hiring
What types of training is required for CPLs and the implemented in the organization
What makes a top-performing CPL
What can people aspire from the CPL role
Advice for a clinician trying to get into the role and how they can be successful

(0:00) Introduction of guests Jessica Johnson and Whitney Theiss from Neurocrine Biosciences (0:23) Welcome and initial greetings (1:37) Guest backgrounds in the clinical and industry sectors (8:22) Transitioning from clinician to field medical roles and CPL definition (13:20) The role and responsibilities of a clinical practice liaison (CPL) (16:25) Comparing MSL and CPL roles, required skills, and training (23:31) Challenges and performance evaluation for CPLs (27:45) Career progression and remote work trends for CPLs (30:19) Advice for clinicians and the importance of emotional intelligence (34:02) Closing remarks and outro

Managed Care MSLs-Past, Present and Future Mar 23, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, Todd Wandstrat delves into the intricate world of managed care and its intersection with the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) role. He offers a comprehensive overview of managed care's history, including health plans, PBMs, and integrated delivery networks. Todd shares insights into the evolving role of MSLs in this sector, highlighting the unique customer base and value proposition they bring. He discusses the necessary skills and career pathways for aspiring managed care MSLs, emphasizing the importance of presentation skills and resume building. The conversation also touches on navigating the MSL role during COVID, fostering KOL relationships, and the significance of internal collaboration and innovative thinking.

Check out my latest podcast with Todd Wandstrat, Sr Director of Field Based Medicine who discusses Managed Care MSLs… Past, Present and Future

Todd shares…

The historical perspective of the Managed Care Market and the MSL
What is a Managed Care MSL
What skills are mandatory and how can an MSL transition
What does the future look like for MSLs

The podcast is available through the links below:

️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ Stitcher: https://lnkd.in/eqB-2wb

Now on YouTube Please subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS7XTUuk1XF5Tm5InADY6cA

Now on Instagram Please subscribe:
https://www.instagram.com/msl_talk_podcast/

(0:00) Introduction to the episode and guest Todd Weinstrat (0:47) Understanding and history of managed care and markets (2:33) Todd Weinstrat's background in managed care (4:01) Evolution and role of MSLs in managed care (7:09) Overview of health plans, PBMs, and integrated delivery networks (11:06) Role and collaborative nature of MSLs in managed care (17:33) Customer base differences and value proposition for managed care MSLs (21:04) Skills and pathways to becoming a managed care MSL (23:05) Enhancing presentation skills and resume building for managed care (25:03) Professional development and self-starting in managed care (27:26) Navigating the MSL role during COVID and KOL relationships (29:20) Importance of internal relationships and innovative thinking (30:27) Closing remarks and future plans

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