Shows
Women Leveling UpThe Science of Inclusive Trials: Redefining Medical Research Inspired by Allison KallooExplore how diversity in clinical trials is reshaping the future of healthcare. Inspired by Allison Kalloo’s groundbreaking advocacy, this episode uncovers why true scientific progress depends on inclusive research. Learn how underrepresentation in medical studies leads to partial treatments, why political shifts threaten diversity initiatives, and how both industry and community action can drive meaningful change. Discover why your participation and advocacy are crucial to building a healthcare system that works for everyone.
2025-05-0614 min
No Ordinary SubjectsVOICE-ACTIVATED - A Regulatory Reckoning of Authentic Engagement in Clinical TrialsIn this follow-up to my keynote presentation at the meeting of the North Carolina Regulatory Affairs Forum (NCRAF) in conjunction with the Triangle Chapter of the ACRP, I’m reflecting— full-chested and unfiltered— on what it means to be voice-activated in an ecosystem that still hasn’t gotten the memo. Among other themes, I’m talking about the fallacy of “coercion” when it comes to compensating participants. I’m calling out the lazy copy/paste of outdated inclusion/exclusion criteria that keep too many out—and keep our data from ever being truly equitable or personalized. I’m challenging regulatory professio...
2025-04-2912 minNo Ordinary SubjectsTRUTH, Not Trust, Is the REAL Currency in Clinical TrialsIn this episode, I touch on why truth, not just trust, is essential in clinical research. I challenge the status quo, advocating for radical transparency to empower participants and build genuine engagement. Read my more in-depth article in the newsletter, Equity 'n Action on LinkedIn.#MedicalResearch #Healthcare #TransparencyInResearch #TruthInTrials #ResearchEthics #CommunityEngagement #RadicalTransparency #NoOrdinarySubjects #AllisonKalloo #ResearchTransparency #BeyondTrust #MarginalizedCommunities #SystemicInequality #HistoricalTraumaInResearch #DEIinResearch #DataTransparency #AskTheQuestions #DemandTransparency #InformedChoice #PowerToThePeople #April2025Send us a text#ClinicalTrials #HealthEquity #DiversityInResearch #UnderrepresentedCommunities #ClinicalResearch #Biopharma #RegulatoryAgencies #CROs #PatientAdvocacy #HealthInnovation #NoOrdinarySubjects #Podcast #HealthPodcast #MedicalResearch #ClinicalResearch #InclusionInResearch #HealthDisparities #PrecisionMedicine #PersonalizedMedicine #PatientCentricity #ResearchEthics #FDA #NI...
2025-04-2110 minNo Ordinary SubjectsContagion of Doubt: How Misinformation Brought Measles BackThis episode of No Ordinary Subjects confronts the return of measles in the United States— a disease we once eliminated. We explore how rising vaccine hesitancy, fueled by years of politicized misinformation and erosion of public trust, has weakened our collective defenses and put us back at risk. Drawing connections between the sidelining of science during the COVID pandemic and today’s outbreaks, we dig into what herd immunity means, who gets left behind and at risk when it's compromised, and why protecting public health demands reconciliation with science-based expertise and the facts.#NoOrdinarySubjects #Measles #Vaccination #Immunity #Outb...
2025-04-1422 minNo Ordinary SubjectsThe 2025 Reckoning: Refusing to Rewrite HistoryIn this episode of No Ordinary Subjects, host Allison Kalloo unpacks the dangerous implications of the Trump administration’s latest executive order, Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History, which takes direct aim at the Smithsonian Institution—specifically, the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This isn’t just about rewriting history; it’s about erasing it.We explore how this calculated attack on historical integrity threatens not only cultural institutions but also industries that rely on truth—healthcare, technology, and business. What happens when systemic erasure extends to medical research, clinical trials, and AI developmen...
2025-04-0119 minNo Ordinary SubjectsGuidance with Teeth - Why the FDA Needs Enforcement PowerIn this episode of No Ordinary Subjects, host Allison Kalloo exposes a critical flaw in how clinical trials are regulated in the U.S. The FDA can issue guidance, make recommendations, and encourage diversity— but it lacks the power to enforce meaningful change. Without Congressional action, clinical trial sponsors can continue treating inclusion as optional. It’s time to demand more than suggestions. Tune in for a frank discussion on why the FDA needs real authority and what’s at stake if we keep accepting business as usual. Read the companion article on LinkedIn.#NoOrdinarySubjects #Regula...
2025-03-2116 minNo Ordinary SubjectsThe Plasma Paradox - The Ethics of Industry Profits & Donor CompensationThis episode of No Ordinary Subjects gets into the ethical complexities of the $24 billion plasma donation industry and the "Plasma Paradox": the vast financial gap between donor compensation and the multi-thousand dollar value of plasma-derived pharmaceuticals that come from each liter extracted. Examining the fairness of corporate profits versus donor payouts, also consider the long-term health effects of frequent plasma extraction. The episode covers the history of plasma use and life-saving therapies, financial disparities, and ethical concerns, and calls for more regulation, transparency, community investment, informed consent, and equitable compensation. There is credence in challenging the idea that altruism...
2025-03-1433 minNo Ordinary SubjectsBeyond Buzzwords: DEI Guidelines for Real Clinical Trial EquityTune in to this episode to get guidance on cutting through DEI noise to deliver actionable guidelines for clinical trial equity. Learn how to move beyond buzzwords, meet FDA expectations, and create real change. We cover lived experience, recruitment, community partnerships, data strategies, and more. We're speaking directly to Clinical Trial Operations Leaders, Regulatory Affairs professionals, Medical Affairs experts, Heads of DEI, Biotech Founders, CRO Executives, and Patient Advocates. If you're grappling with recruitment challenges, navigating evolving FDA diversity guidance, or striving for meaningful change beyond corporate statements, this episode is for you. After all, DEI in clinical trials...
2025-03-1340 minNo Ordinary SubjectsInternational Women's Day: Power & PossibilityOur perspectives and opportunities are shaped by culture, history, and the experiences we carry. On this International Women’s Day episode of No Ordinary Subjects, we’re celebrating how these forces influence the way we move through the world— and how we can push beyond the limits they impose. It’s also about not allowing competition with one another impede our progress or diminish our community. Women are stepping fully into our power. From resilience to reinvention, women continue to transform obstacles into opportunities. Send us a text#ClinicalTrials #HealthEquity #DiversityInResearch #UnderrepresentedCommunities #ClinicalResearch #Biopharma #RegulatoryAgencies #CROs #Pat...
2025-03-1127 minNo Ordinary SubjectsCorporate Chameleons - Adaptive DEI RebrandingLately, there’s been a shift: Companies and institutions that were always genuine about cultural change are finding themselves needing to “rebrand” diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in light of the toxic political climate. But let’s be real: Is this adaptive evolution or erosion of standards? In this episode of No Ordinary Subjects, I break down the difference between meaningful transformation and the kind of corporate posturing that prioritizes optics over impact. For those genuinely deeply invested in inclusive strategies—especially in healthcare and clinical trials— you earn respect for refusing to acquiesce to the political toxicity that’s made DEI a d...
2025-02-1127 minNo Ordinary SubjectsThe Death of DEI? Not on MY Watch!DEI is under attack—watered down, defunded, and dismissed. But let’s be clear: its death is neither inevitable nor acceptable. In this episode of No Ordinary Subjects, I confront the backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion head-on, exposing the paranoid hypocrisy of those who claim DEI has "gone too far" while systemic inequities remain as stark as ever. I call out the performative gestures and demand accountability. From empty corporate pledges to outright rollbacks, I call out the administration for fueling this backlash with their paranoid, regressive narrative. DEI isn’t a trend—it’s a fixture, no matter wha...
2025-02-0909 minNo Ordinary SubjectsWhen Clinical Trials Fall Short: A Patient’s Unfiltered ReviewIn a candid episode of No Ordinary Subjects, I share my personal experience of being shortchanged in a migraine clinical trial after a technical error led to a missed blood draw. The sponsor's refusal to take responsibility sparked a crucial question: why don't patients have a public platform to review clinical trials like consumers review businesses? I break the silence naming the sponsor and offering a raw patient perspective on the study demanding transparency and accountability. This episode confronts ethical oversight FDA regulations and the undervaluation of trial participants. It's a call for change urging a shift towards patient...
2025-02-0819 minNo Ordinary SubjectsRevisiting the Issue of Patient CompensationIn this solo episode of No Ordinary Subjects, I reflect on a topic close to my heart: patient compensation in clinical trials. Having stepped away from the industry, I share my candid thoughts on how the lack of respect for participants played a role in my decision. I have been an advocate for many years. A recent article by DIA brought the issue of money front and center: Compensation isn’t just financial— it’s a matter of ethics and fairness. Patients sacrifice time, health, and trust, yet their contributions continue to be undervalued in both figurative and literal ways...
2025-01-2422 minNo Ordinary SubjectsNeed to Get Unstuck? Just StartFeeling stuck? Overwhelmed by where to begin? Both are more common than a cold. In this episode of No Ordinary Subjects, host Allison Kalloo dives into the power of taking that all-important first step toward your passion. Whether you’re launching a new project, pursuing a dream, or simply rethinking what’s possible, the message is clear: you don’t have to have it all figured out to get started.Send us a text#ClinicalTrials #HealthEquity #DiversityInResearch #UnderrepresentedCommunities #ClinicalResearch #Biopharma #RegulatoryAgencies #CROs #PatientAdvocacy #HealthInnovation #NoOrdinarySubjects #Podcast #HealthPodcast #MedicalResearch #ClinicalResearch #InclusionInResearch #HealthDisparities #PrecisionMedicine #PersonalizedMedicine #PatientCentricity #ResearchEthics #FDA #N...
2025-01-0109 minNo Ordinary Subjects2024 Year-End Wrap-UpAs the year comes to a close, host Allison Kalloo reflects on the challenges, growth, and clarity 2024 brought while setting an inspiring tone for 2025. In this deeply personal episode, Allison shares stories from her journey, including lessons on communication and the power of human connection.She dives into her multi-passionate goals: writing books, launching apps, designing CVSTOMOLOGY products, and more— showing how science and the arts can intersect to create meaningful impact. With a powerful call-to-action for the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, Allison challenges listeners to stop the lip service and truly show up to make a di...
2025-01-0122 minNo Ordinary SubjectsGrace & Grit - Navigating Breast Cancer with Lady KimberlyIn this episode of 'No Ordinary Subjects', we hear from 'Lady' Kimberly Anderson, whose breast cancer journey is a remarkable testament to both grace and grit. Diagnosed at the young age of 32, Lady Kimberly is forthcoming about her harrowing experience and what (and who) has kept her going in the 15 years since. She's happy to discuss the importance of leaning on family, faith, community, and a lot of creativity along the way. She shares her strong opinions across a variety a lot of topics, including chemotherapy, vaccines, and clinical trials. "More than a conqueror," she is an inspiration for...
2024-06-051h 11No Ordinary SubjectsNavigating Breast Cancer with Grace & Grit - Lady Kimberly AndersonSend us a Text Message.In this episode of 'No Ordinary Subjects', we hear from 'Lady' Kimberly Anderson, whose breast cancer journey is a remarkable testament to both grace and grit. Diagnosed at the young age of 32, Lady Kimberly is forthcoming about her harrowing experience and what (and who) has kept her going in the 15 years since. She's happy to discuss the importance of leaning on family, faith, community, and a lot of creativity along the way. She shares her strong opinions across a variety a lot of topics, including chemotherapy, vaccines, and clinical trials. "More than...
2024-06-031h 12No Ordinary SubjectsHealth Equity Congress - Patient Perspectives - Part 1The 2nd Annual Health Equity in Clinical Trials Congress took place in Atlanta, GA on May 8-9, 2024. I'm your podcast host, Allison Kalloo, and I moderated the opening plenary session— a panel featuring patients like me! Not surprisingly, the time constraints did not allow for as robust a conversation as we would have liked, so it felt as if we were just scratching the surface of what we wanted to share with the audience of mostly pharma representatives. But... 'No Ordinary Subjects' seems like a great platform for taking a deeper dive. I also mention the #Medable digital eConsent as...
2024-05-2715 minNo Ordinary SubjectsRural Health Advocacy - Patricia PeeleOn this episode of No Ordinary Subjects, host Allison Kalloo sits down with the remarkable Ms. Patricia Peele, a community activist and advocate from rural Halifax County, North Carolina. Patricia's story is one of inspiration and action, dedicated to increasing representation in clinical trials for Black, Brown, and rural communities. She shares her invaluable insights and practical advice for bridging the gap and fostering trust between researchers and these often-underrepresented populations. Patricia's firsthand experience as a research participant, coupled with her deep understanding of community needs, makes her a powerful voice in the fight for health equity. Join us...
2024-05-2155 minNo Ordinary SubjectsUnraveling Male Lupus - VERY Extended InterviewThis extended, deeply personal episode of No Ordinary Subjects features a courageous conversation with a man who bravely shares his journey with lupus. For too long, lupus has been mistakenly perceived as a "women's disease," leaving men who experience it feeling isolated and misunderstood. Our anonymous guest opens up about his life before diagnosis, the challenges he faced in getting answers, and the unique struggles he's encountered as a man living with this chronic illness. He offers an unfiltered look at the realities of male lupus, from the physical and emotional toll to the societal stigma that often accompanies...
2024-05-153h 32No Ordinary SubjectsDiversity Patient Recruitment - Hiding in Plain SightThis episode of No Ordinary Subjects offers a deeply personal reflection from your host. I'm Allison Kalloo and I decided to share a powerful encounter that has shaped her understanding of bias in research. Taking a trip down memory lane, I recountsan experience that underscores the fundamental biases that can hinder researchers and their work from achieving true greatness and inclusivity. Rather than dwelling on the problem, this episode offers a valuable teachable moment. It serves as a reminder that moving beyond the limitations of our cultural comfort zones requires stepping down from the 'ivory tower' and actively getting...
2024-05-1409 minNo Ordinary SubjectsHiding in Plain SightResearchers are notorious for complaining that they have trouble recruiting patients for clinical trials— especially those who are nonwhite. There might be a reason for that which is staring them in their faces. This is a straightforward megadose of truth, complete with a stupefying personal anecdote.
2024-05-1220 minNo Ordinary SubjectsUnraveling Male Lupus - Extended InterviewThis extended (3-hour) episode features a most dynamic interview with an anonymous man who dares to share his personal experiences in riveting detail. This guest provides access to his life leading up to his diagnosis of lupus, the myriad struggles in its aftermath, and the personal triumphs that are possible despite it. Overall, this episode inadvertently demonstrates the richness available to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries when interpersonal rapport and a connection is established.
2024-05-123h 33No Ordinary SubjectsDEI - Still & Always a Vital SubjectWelcome to No Ordinary Subjects. This podcast boldly explores the crucial intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion in health, medicine, and clinical trials. This premiere episode lays the foundation for a series of candid and thought-provoking conversations that will delve into the often difficult, sometimes controversial, and always unusual subjects that shape our health experiences.Prepare to hear from a broad spectrum of stakeholders who are deeply invested in this vital dialogue. I'll speak with those working tirelessly on the front lines of clinical care to improve health outcomes, the brilliant scientists dedicated to discovering better treatments...
2024-05-0707 minNo Ordinary SubjectsPREMIERE EpisodeStepping out of the long shadows of myths, misconceptions, and misalignment, No Ordinary Subjects connects the dots and clears a path toward better outcomes in clinical trials – for everyone involved. The status quo is not acceptable, and it's simply not working. It's time to put the pedal down and explore meaningful solutions for all stakeholders in this vital ecosystem: clinical researchers, biopharma, regulatory agencies, CROs, clinical sites and their dedicated staff – with a laser focus on the implications for and impact on study participants, particularly those who have been historically underrepresented in clinical trials.Join host Allison Kall...
2024-05-0716 min
Talk of the TowneEpisode 05: Allison Kalloo on DEI in Clinical ResearchAntidote’s podcast, Talk of the Towne, focuses on the ultimate sweet spot: that special place where science and patients converge. Our host, Rich Towne, PharmD, was trained in pharmacy and currently works in Clinical Informatics at Antidote. In each episode, Rich welcomes a new guest from an organization with which Antidote is working, and takes an in-depth look at particular therapeutic areas or topics, zeroing in on the story that Antidote's data is telling about how best to connect patients and research.
For our fifth episode, we sat down with Allison Kalloo, MPH, CD, Founder/CEO of...
2022-11-2938 min
VITFriends VITILIGO Support GroupLiving Life and Love with Allison Kalloo, Clinical AmbassadorInterested in clinical trials? Afraid to take the steps to join a trial? Do you need someone to advocate on your behalf? There are organizations that will serve as ambassadors before and during a clinical trial. Tune in to hear from Allison Kalloo from Clinical Ambassador. Find out more about Clinical Ambassador and Allison's personal connection to clinical trials. Learn why clinical trials are important to the medical field, research, and your personal health.
2021-12-2650 min
Inspired Action for Imperfect HumansS1 Ep12: Monday Mindset - Parenting In Stressful TimesIn this weeks Monday Mindset Meeting with Allison Williams and Kyle Kalloo they discuss "Parenting in Stressful Times"!
2020-08-1043 min