Episodes

  • Nuclear Pharmacy Career Deep Dive | Salary, Training, Daily Life & How to Get Started
    Dec 29 2025

    Curious about nuclear pharmacy as a career? Dr. Alvin Blackmon, with over 10 years of experience in nuclear pharmacy, provides a comprehensive overview of this specialized field. In this detailed conversation, you'll learn about the day-to-day responsibilities of nuclear pharmacists, from preparing radiopharmaceuticals at 5 AM to working with unique procedures like gastric emptying studies and white blood cell tagging. Discover the differences between hospital and commercial pharmacy settings, salary ranges ($140K-$200K), safety protocols, and the exact education requirements including the 700- hour authorized user certification. Whether you're a pharmacy student exploring specialties or a practicing pharmacist considering a career change, this episode covers everything from the pros and cons of different practice settings to actionable steps for breaking into this super niche field.

    🔑 Key Things You'll Learn:

    • Nuclear pharmacy basics: roles, $140K-$200K salaries, and career outlook
    • Exact pathway to enter: 700-hour certification and training requirements
    • Behind-the-scenes look at daily operations: 5 AM starts, unique procedures, and real responsibilities
    • Real talk on radiation safety: exposure levels and actual risks explained
    • Career fit assessment: schedule, personality traits, and work environments

    Universities that Offer an Authorized Nuclear Pharmacist (ANP) Program/Track:

    1. Purdue University (via Nuclear Education Online partnership)
    2. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (in partnership with UNM NEO)
    3. University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy
    4. University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy
    5. University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy

    Connect with Dr. Alvin Blackmon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvin-blackmon-iii-pharmd-bcnp-540990122/

    Quick Links:

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    👉 About Pharmacy Pathways Video (3 min watch time)

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    Disclaimers & Disclosures: The views and content expressed in this video are personal to the speaker(s) only, and not representative of any corresponding organizations or institutions. The content in this video (including text, graphics, images, and information) is intended for informational purposes, and may not be applicable to individual circumstances, therefore, speakers are not held accountable for the result of any actions taken or decisions made as a result of the content viewed. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. Dr. Savannah Duke is currently an employee of Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, the opinions, or perspective expressed today do not represent the opinions or perspective of her employer.

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    46 mins
  • Pharmacy Residency Reality Check: How to Match and How to Move Forward if You Don't
    Dec 15 2025

    This may be the most honest conversation about the pharmacy residency process you'll find on the internet. In this episode, you will learn how to position yourself as the candidate programs can't ignore. Learn how to build a competitive CV, secure powerful letters of recommendation, and craft compelling letters of intent. The goal is to match, but if you don't, we acknowledge how much it hurts — but also how to move forward. Two pharmacists from the #1 pharmacy school with a 96% match rate—share our completely different journeys: one matched and completed residency, the other went through ALL THREE phases and still didn't match. From two pharmacists who lived it, we're breaking down what really makes candidates competitive, the hidden mistakes that kill applications, and the strategic moves that can make or break your pharmacy career—with or without a residency. Whether you're planning to apply, currently in the process, or wondering if there's life after rejection, this episode will give you the roadmap to pharmacy success that no one else is talking about.

    🔑 Key Things You'll Learn:

    1. Who Should Pursue a Pharmacy Residency, Why It Matters, and When to Apply
    2. The 4-Critical Component of a The Pharmacy Application
    3. How to Stand Out From the Thousands of Applications
    4. What Happens When You Don't Match & What to Do Next

    Click to Read Savannah's Article " The Day I Didn't Match For A Pharmacy Residency"

    Quick Links:

    👉 Subscribe to Newsletter For Exclusive Episode Recaps

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    👉 About Pharmacy Pathways Video (3 min watch time)

    Digging this content?

    • 🔔 Subscribe to the channel for more expert knowledge and pharmacy insights.
    • 💬 Rate the show! Let us and others know what you think

    Disclaimers & Disclosures: The views and content expressed in this video are personal to the speaker(s) only, and not representative of any corresponding organizations or institutions. The content in this video (including text, graphics, images, and information) is intended for informational purposes, and may not be applicable to individual circumstances, therefore, speakers are not held accountable for the result of any actions taken or decisions made as a result of the content viewed. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. Dr. Savannah Duke is currently an employee of Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, the opinions, or perspective expressed today do not represent the opinions or perspective of her employer.

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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • Medical Science Liaison Career Path! Full MSL Breakdown & Tips to ACE your Interview
    Dec 1 2025

    If you feel like the Medical Science Liaison role might be your calling - this episode is your masterclass. Dr. Savannah Duke shares her non-traditional journey to becoming a Medical Science Liaison (MSL), detailing the unique aspects of the role and what it truly takes to be successful. She discusses the day-to-day responsibilities and performance expectations, while also addressing the drawbacks to the role that usually don't get mentioned. But more importantly, she reveals the step-by-step interview process that stumps most candidates, including the scientific presentation that makes or breaks your chances and the behavioral questions that reveal your true potential. She even shares her biggest interview mistake and how it led to her eventual success. Breaking into this highly sought-after role is NOT easy, BUT, if you've got what it takes, this episode will show you exactly how to get there!

    🔑 Key Things You'll Learn:

    1. The MSL role, key responsibilities, and daily activities
    2. What separates a successful MSL from a mediocre one
    3. Free game on how to ACE each phase of the MSL Interview
    4. Effective strategies for career advancement for the non-traditional candidate

    Click to Read Savannah's Article " The Day I Didn't Match For A Pharmacy Residency"

    Quick Links:

    👉 Subscribe to Newsletter For Exclusive Episode Recaps

    👉 Become a Guest, fill out the form

    👉 Make requests, submit questions, or give feedback

    👉 About Pharmacy Pathways Video (3 min watch time)

    Digging this content?

    • 🔔 Subscribe to the channel for more expert knowledge and pharmacy insights.
    • 💬 Rate the show! Let us and others know what you think

    Disclaimers & Disclosures: The views and content expressed in this video are personal to the speaker(s) only, and not representative of any corresponding organizations or institutions. The content in this video (including text, graphics, images, and information) is intended for informational purposes, and may not be applicable to individual circumstances, therefore, speakers are not held accountable for the result of any actions taken or decisions made as a result of the content viewed. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. Dr. Savannah Duke is currently an employee of Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, the opinions, or perspective expressed today do not represent the opinions or perspective of her employer.

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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • Find Pharmacy Career Paths That Will CHANGE Your Life (FREE Resource For Pharmacists)
    Nov 24 2025

    If you're tired of feeling stuck in pharmacy or wondering "what else can I do with my degree," this resource is your game-changer. Season 2 of 'Pharmacy Pathways' is packed with a BRAND NEW set of incredible careers - from nuclear pharmacy, compounding, to cutting-edge AI healthcare roles and sooo much more. I'm not just showing you these careers; I'm giving you the insider scoop on how to break into them, what they look like on the day-to-day, and why they might be the perfect fit for YOUR personality and goals. From independent pharmacy ownership to solid organ transplant specialties, this season covers careers that could literally change your life. Whether you're a student, new grad, or seasoned pharmacist, stop settling for "just okay" when extraordinary pharmacy careers are out there waiting for you!

    Here’s what's coming for Season 2 of Pharmacy Pathways:

    • In-depth interviews with pharmacists in specialized fields, including nuclear pharmacy, compounding, and telepharmacy.
    • Expert knowledge on emerging areas like AI in healthcare, solid organ transplant, gastroenterology, and rheumatology.
    • Practical career advice on residency preparation, the MSL interview process, and tackling challenges like not matching.
    • A spotlight on pharmacy ownership and leadership roles for entrepreneurial minds.

    Quick Links:

    👉 Subscribe to Newsletter For Exclusive Episode Recaps

    👉 Become a Guest, fill out the form

    👉 Make requests, submit questions, or give feedback

    👉 About Pharmacy Pathways Video (3 min watch time)

    Digging this content?

    • 🔔 Subscribe to the channel for more expert knowledge and pharmacy insights.
    • 💬 Rate the show! Let us and others know what you think

    Disclaimers & Disclosures: The views and content expressed in this video are personal to the speaker(s) only, and not representative of any corresponding organizations or institutions. The content in this video (including text, graphics, images, and information) is intended for informational purposes, and may not be applicable to individual circumstances, therefore, speakers are not held accountable for the result of any actions taken or decisions made as a result of the content viewed. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

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    4 mins
  • Your Roadmap to Pharmacy Career Fulfillment (Season 1 Finale)
    Jul 21 2025

    Join us for the season 1 finale of Pharmacy Pathways! In this episode, Host Dom the Pharmacist reflects on the incredible lineup of guests from diverse pharmacy niches and shares insights into what's coming in Season 2. Exciting new careers are in the woodworks, such as nuclear pharmacy, AI in healthcare, industry, and more! This episode reveals what Dominique will be working on during the break, and what new content she expects to drop in the interim. (hint hint...she plans to give away free training that she charges with private clients)

    This is a season finale you don't want to miss! If you are new to Pharmacy Pathways, this is a show dedicated to highlighting the vast careers within the field of pharmacy. From clinical pharmacists to medical writers, hear stories of career pivots, challenges, and triumphs. If you've ever felt limited by traditional pharmacy roles, this podcast will blow your mind and show you possibilities you never knew existed. Your dream pharmacy career is waiting! And it's only one episode away. 🎯

    🔑 Episode Highlights:

    1. Season 1 Recap
    2. Top 5 Moments of Season 1
    3. What's Coming In Season 2
    4. During The Break: New Content Dropping

    5 Episodes Referenced in Top Moments:

    1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-vYh2ikj3Q
    2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DjlGXvNF10
    3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-E-EszwN9o
    4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRNbCp0vOTY
    5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBweWCTwGKs

    Watch Full Episode: https://youtu.be/Cx0bcpchbUg&list=PLFmrX2PIHlvELkQAY2tqpKS4JRcj-Cu5Z

    - Subscribe to Newsletter For Exclusive Episode Recaps 👉 https://www.pharmacypathways.org

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    - About Pharmacy Pathways (3 min watch time): https://youtu.be/qTX7i1g9m0k

    Digging this content?

    • 🔔 Subscribe to the channel for more expert knowledge and pharmacy insights.
    • 💬 Rate the show! Let us and others know what you think

    Disclaimers & Disclosures: The views and content expressed in this video are personal to the speaker(s) only, and not representative of any corresponding organizations or institutions. The content in this video (including text, graphics, images, and information) is intended for informational purposes, and may not be applicable to individual circumstances, therefore, speakers are not held accountable for the result of any actions taken or decisions made as a result of the content viewed. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

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    16 mins
  • What I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Mental Health Pharmacist
    Jun 23 2025

    Aspiring to specialize in psychiatric pharmacy? Dr. Frank Tillman gets real about his journey – from battling imposter syndrome to navigating a less-than-ideal first job before establishing himself as a leading psychiatric pharmacist on the team. He clarifies the pharmacist's distinct role alongside psychiatrists and psychologists, while giving us his day-to-day responsibilities within his job. He shares critical advice on how to differentiate yourself from the competition, from finding the right mentors, to strategically choosing rotations and navigating the PGY1/PGY2 match process.

    If that's not enough he also delves into the importance of cultural competency in mental health, and the practical application of skills like crisis management and suicide safety planning – things you likely won't learn in school. From managing a panel of patients with diverse mental health conditions to the emotional resilience required, Dr. Tillman offers an unfiltered look into this vital specialty. If you're looking for an honest, inspiring, and practical guide to forging a successful and fulfilling career as a psychiatric pharmacist, even when the path isn't linear, this is a must-watch.

    Key topics in this episode of Pharmacy Pathways:

    • The path to specialization: from student to resident to psychiatric pharmacist
    • A behind-the-scenes look at his daily responsibilities as a psychiatric pharmacist, from patient care to crisis management
    • The importance of mentorship, networking, and resilience in achieving your career goals
    • The numerous and various career options for psychiatric pharmacists within healthcare
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Pharmacy Advocacy 101: Why It Matters Now More Than Ever!
    Jun 9 2025

    "You either get into politics or you get out of pharmacy." - These are the words that changed everything for Darryle Tillman, who went from reading about Pharmacy in the career section of a newspaper, to becoming the president-elect of his state's most powerful pharmacy organization. In this no-holds-back interview, he unpacks 25+ years of pharmacy experience and exposes the uncomfortable truth about why pharmacists are losing ground in the healthcare profession. In this episode you'll learn why standing up for pharmacy matters now more than ever. We also get into how your ~$200 investment into your state association membership is worth over $5,000 in value, how to go from zero advocacy experience to state leadership in just a few years, and the 30-second action that protects your six-figure salary. Darryle is sounding the alarm to every pharmacist nationwide, warning us whats at stake if we fail to take action. This isn't just about advocacy - it's about survival.

    As experts in medicine and health, pharmacists are uniquely positioned to inform and shape policy decisions that impact our basic rights to practice, including our autonomy. By bridging the gap between practice and policy, pharmacists can become agents of positive change, driving progress in patient care and access to healthcare through evidence-based practices. Whether you're a pharmacist looking to make a greater impact or simply interested in the intersection of pharmacy and policy, this video is for you.

    🔑 Key topics in this episode of Pharmacy Pathways:

    • Why state-level advocacy matters more than national organizations for your daily practice
    • The 30-second action that protects your six-figure salary and the future of pharmacy
    • The leadership pipeline strategy: from student to industry leader in 5 years
    • Why your professional license demands political engagement
    • Specific examples of how pharmacy advocacy improved career autonomy and patient healthcare access
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Empowering Future Pharmacists: Leadership and Outreach with SNPhA
    May 26 2025

    Get ready to be inspired on Pharmacy Pathways as we chat with Dr. Tazche Turner, the visionary President of SNPhA (Student National Pharmaceutical Association)! Discover how this powerhouse organization is revolutionizing pharmacy education by turning students into leaders and community champions. Recent grad Dr. Turner shares her journey from local chapter member to national leadership and reveals how SNPhA's initiatives create real impact in underserved communities AND offers a roadmap for leveraging SNPhA's resources to enhance your pharmacy school experience. With exclusive insights into leadership opportunities, mentorship programs, and professional development, this episode is your gateway to transforming your pharmacy school experience and future career. Whether you're considering pharmacy school or already on your journey, don't miss this chance to learn how SNPhA can help you make a meaningful in underserved communities while building essential professional skills! It's an episode you can't afford to miss!

    🔑 Key topics in this episode of Pharmacy Pathways:

    • What SNPhA is and its core mission to serve the underserved
    • The transformative leadership opportunities available to pharmacy students
    • Insights into SNPhA's "Great Eight" initiatives, including diabetes prevention, mental health awareness, and more
    • Professional development programs such as mentorships, competitions, and networking events
    • How to get involved, whether as a member or a leader, and the benefits of participating in SNPhA activities

    Learn More About SNPhA: https://nationalpharmaceuticalassociation.org/Snpha-home Apply for SNPhA Membership: https://nationalpharmaceuticalassociation.org/SNPhA-Join Register for SNPhA's Convention! https://nationalpharmaceuticalassociation.org/snpha-NC

    🔔 Early Bird Registration ends June 27th, 2025! Hurry to get your discount!

    🔔 Regular Registration is open June 28th, 2025 - July 18th, 2025

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    42 mins