
🎙️🎙️Enjoyed this episode? Watch the full episode (Ep 8: Embracing Failures and Career Detours) or check out our professional development playlist to learn more.
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▷Thu
https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd
Substack: https://drthurx.substack.com/
▷Saley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
X: ReziPrep360
YouTube: @ReziPrep360
Business inquiries: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Feb 7, 2025
18 min

🎙️🎙️This episode is a re-release from the the Ep 12 Interview Like a Pro. Listen to the full episode NOW!🎙️ Enjoyed this episode? Share with your friends! We can all succeed together.🎙️Support us by purchasing our merch at https://rxfriendsshop.com✨•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Follow us on social media▷Hey Rx Friends, We Got This! https://linktr.ee/HeyrxfriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrxfriendswgtTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heyrxfriendswgt YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This ▷ Thu https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmdSubstack: https://drthurx.substack.com/▷Saley:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1 TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1X: ReziPrep360YouTube: @ReziPrep360 Business inquiries: [email protected]: All opinions are our own.
Jan 28, 2025
19 min

In this special live episode, Thu and Saley reflect on 10 years of their pharmacy journey, sharing lessons learned along the way. From navigating residency challenges, overcoming imposter syndrome, and balancing relationships, to embracing entrepreneurship and navigating personal loss, they open up about the highs and lows of their careers. This honest and inspiring conversation offers valuable insights for pharmacists at all stages of their professional development.
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**Please write a review! That is how we will become more discoverable.
Five Key Takeaways
1. Resilience and perseverance are essential when facing setbacks, whether it's not matching for a residency or struggling in a new job. Giving yourself grace and support can help you bounce back.
2. Maintaining a strong identity and interests outside of pharmacy can prevent burnout and provide balance, even as your career progresses.
3. Taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone, like sharing your work publicly, can lead to unexpected opportunities for growth and connection.
4. Career transitions, even if they involve a step back, can open the door to fulfilling new paths that align with your values and aspirations.
5. Navigating personal loss and challenges requires tapping into your inner strength and faith, while also leaning on your support system. There is often purpose in the difficult moments.
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Chapters
00:00 Intro
03:26 2014 Failure to match
06:09 2015 Falling behind in pharmacy school
08:56 2016 Crying at work
13:00 2017 Handling relationship during transitional period
16:20 2018 My life outside of pharmacy
18:41 2019 The challenges of pharmacy leadership
25:24 2020 Healthcare is traumatizing
34:56 2021 Coming out as an entrepreneur
41:38 2022 Going viral was not it
45:46 2023 Reinvention requires a step back
53:06 Final thoughts
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YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This
▷Thu
https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd
Substack: https://drthurx.substack.com/
▷Saley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
X: ReziPrep360
YouTube: @ReziPrep360
Business inquiries: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Jan 7, 2025
1 hr 5 min

In this bonus episode, the hosts discuss the high-profile murder of a healthcare CEO and the public's surprising reaction to the suspected shooter. They explore the complex issues surrounding the healthcare industry, including allegations of predatory practices by insurance companies and the government's role in enabling these practices. The hosts grapple with the ethics of the situation and whether the suspected shooter should be viewed as a hero or a criminal. This thought-provoking conversation provides a nuanced look at a troubling incident that has captivated the nation.
Please like and share the video. That will help us to grow the show. We can't thank you enough :)
Follow us on social media
▷Hey Rx Friends, We Got This!
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrxfriendswgt
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YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This
▷Thu
https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd
Substack: https://drthurx.substack.com/
▷Saley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
X: ReziPrep360
YouTube: @ReziPrep360
Business inquiries: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Dec 27, 2024
30 min

This episode features the hosts, Thu and Saley, hosting the "Pharmacy End of Year Awards" where they celebrate the everyday pharmacists and healthcare workers. They announce the winners of various lighthearted categories voted on by the audience, such as Best Drug Rep Food, Best Pharmacy-Related Song, and Most Shocking Pharmacy News. Throughout the episode, the hosts banter and share their personal experiences and perspectives on the pharmacy profession. The episode concludes with the hosts reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to their upcoming live show.
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Follow us on social media
▷Hey Rx Friends, We Got This!
https://linktr.ee/Heyrxfriends
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrxfriendswgt
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YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This
▷Thu
https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd
Substack: https://drthurx.substack.com/
▷Saley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
X: ReziPrep360
YouTube: @ReziPrep360
Business inquiries: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Dec 24, 2024
40 min

Be Like Martha Stewart!The hosts discuss the lessons they've learned from watching the Martha Stewart documentary, exploring themes of likability, resilience, and the challenges of entrepreneurship as women in the pharmacy profession. They reflect on the importance of clarity of vision, community support, and embracing one's unique voice, even in the face of skepticism. This episode offers an insightful and entertaining look at navigating the complexities of building a successful personal and professional brand.••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Follow us on social media▷Hey Rx Friends, We Got This! https://linktr.ee/HeyrxfriendsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrxfriendswgtTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heyrxfriendswgt YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This ▷Thu https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmdSubstack: https://drthurx.substack.com/▷Saley:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1 TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1X: ReziPrep360YouTube: @ReziPrep360 Business inquiries: [email protected] Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Dec 10, 2024
51 min

In this episode, Thu and Saley have a thought-provoking discussion on the challenges of professional confidence and belonging, particularly for residents and pharmacists of color. They explore the importance of mentorship, community, and personal resilience in navigating these issues. The conversation delves into the nuances of code-switching, systemic barriers, and the responsibility of workplaces to foster inclusive environments. Despite their differing perspectives, Thu and Saley provide valuable insights and strategies for listeners to overcome self-limiting beliefs and thrive in their careers.
Key takeaways from the episode:
1. Acquiring professional confidence is crucial, but it's not just about feeling capable - it's also about feeling seen, heard, and valued in the workplace.
2. Residency programs can be challenging, and residents need to be prepared for the rigor, but they should also seek out mentors and a supportive community to help them navigate the experience.
3. Belonging is about more than just fitting in - it's about feeling that your authentic self is acknowledged and accepted in the workplace.
4. Systemic barriers and lack of diversity in certain fields can create significant challenges for professionals of color, but individual resilience and the ability to create your own community can be powerful tools.
5. While workplaces have a responsibility to foster inclusive environments, individuals also need to be proactive in finding the support and resources they need to thrive, even if the ideal conditions don't exist.
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Follow us on social media
▷Hey Rx Friends, We Got This!
https://linktr.ee/Heyrxfriends
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrxfriendswgt
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heyrxfriendswgt
YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This
▷Thu
https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd
Substack: https://drthurx.substack.com/
▷Saley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
X: ReziPrep360
YouTube: @ReziPrep360
Business inquiries: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Nov 26, 2024
1 hr 6 min

In this episode, Thu and Saley dive deep into the drama surrounding GLP-1 receptor agonist medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro. They explore the meteoric rise of these drugs, fueled by celebrity use for weight loss, and the resulting shortages that have led to a clash between pharmaceutical companies, compounding pharmacies, and the FDA.The hosts examine the complex issues at play, including the high costs of these medications, the dangers of improper use and dosing, and the challenges patients face in accessing these potentially life-changing treatments. They also shine a light on the concerning trend of med spas prescribing these drugs for cosmetic purposes, putting patients at risk. With their signature blend of expertise, humor, and passion for healthcare, Thu and Celeste navigate the nuances of this evolving situation, offering insights and advice for both patients and providers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of pharmacy, public health, and the ever-changing landscape of modern medicine.
Here are 5 key takeaways from the episode:
1. GLP-1 receptor agonists have become a social phenomenon, with celebrities fueling a surge in demand for these medications for weight loss, leading to drug shortages.
2. Compounding pharmacies have stepped in to fill the supply gap, but this has raised safety concerns from pharmaceutical companies about the quality and dosing of compounded versions.
3. The FDA has issued warnings about dosing errors and adverse events associated with compounded GLP-1 medications, highlighting the need for proper medical oversight and patient education.
4. The high cost of these drugs, coupled with limited insurance coverage for weight loss indications, has created an experimental situation, with patients seeking alternatives like sublingual formulations without sufficient evidence.
5. The fragility of the drug supply chain and the competing interests of pharmaceutical companies, compounding pharmacies, and regulatory bodies have created a complex situation that requires transparency, collaboration, and a focus on patient safety.
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Chapters
00:00 Intro
3:33 GLP1 background
16:29 Drama begins
22:24 Compounding pharmacy claps back
29:52 FDA enters the chat
41:43 Should you trust compounded GLP1?
56:32 Med spas and GLP1...
1:02:40 Drug shortage and its consequences
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Follow us on social media
▷Hey Rx Friends, We Got This! https://linktr.ee/Heyrxfriends
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrxfriendswgt
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heyrxfriendswgt
YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This
▷Thu
https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd
Substack: https://drthurx.substack.com/
▷Saley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
X: ReziPrep360
YouTube: @ReziPrep360
Business inquiries: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Nov 12, 2024
1 hr 7 min

In this chilling episode, we dive into the dark story of Robert Courtney - a trusted pharmacist who systematically diluted chemotherapy drugs for nearly a decade, putting countless cancer patients at risk. Hear how his greed and ambition led him to betray the very people he was sworn to protect, and learn how vigilant healthcare workers ultimately uncovered his sinister scheme. This cautionary tale serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity, accountability, and speaking up when something seems amiss in the medical field.
Here are 5 key takeaways from the episode:
1. Robert Courtney was a well-respected, long-time pharmacist who owned and operated his own independent pharmacy in Kansas City, Missouri.
2. Over the course of nearly a decade, Courtney systematically diluted expensive chemotherapy medications like Gemzar and Taxol, affecting over 98,000 prescriptions.
3. Courtney's motivation was purely financial - he wanted to increase his profit margins by stretching the medications he ordered and selling the diluted versions at full price.
4. Courtney's scheme went undetected for years due to the difficulty in distinguishing the effects of diluted chemotherapy from the natural progression of cancer in patients.
5. Courtney was ultimately caught and convicted on 20 felony counts, including tampering with consumer products and adulterating drugs. He was sentenced to 30 years in prison and ordered to pay $10.4 million in restitution.
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Follow us on social media
▷Hey Rx Friends, We Got This! https://linktr.ee/Heyrxfriends
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrxfriendswgt
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heyrxfriendswgt
YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This
▷Thu
https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd
Substack: https://drthurx.substack.com/
▷Saley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
X: ReziPrep360
YouTube: @ReziPrep360
Business inquiries: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Oct 29, 2024
56 min

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with pharmacy owner and advocate Jeremy Counts to expose the predatory practices of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs). Jeremy pulls back the curtain on how these powerful middlemen have systematically exploited the pharmacy industry, leading to skyrocketing drug prices, unsustainable reimbursements for pharmacies, and a healthcare system prioritizing profits over patient care.
From gag clauses that prevent pharmacists from informing patients about cheaper options, to vertical integration that allows PBMs to dominate the market, Jeremy lays bare the tactics used to line their own pockets. Listeners will come away with a newfound understanding of the urgent need for legislative action, as Jeremy outlines the Pharmacist Fight Back Act and calls on all pharmacists to get involved in the fight to save their profession.
This is a must-listen episode for anyone who wants to understand the true cost of prescription drugs and the forces working against affordable healthcare.
Key Takeaway:
1. PBMs use predatory tactics like gag clauses and vertical integration to dominate the pharmacy industry and maximize profits at the expense of patients and pharmacies.
2. The complex web of rebates, fees, and reimbursement practices employed by PBMs has led to artificially inflated drug prices and unsustainable reimbursements for pharmacies.
3. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the challenges faced by pharmacists, as PBMs took advantage of the situation to further cut reimbursements, despite pharmacists' increased workload and personal sacrifices.
4. The Pharmacist Fight Back Act (HR 9096) is a critical piece of legislation that aims to reform PBM practices and protect the pharmacy profession, but it requires widespread pharmacist involvement and advocacy.
5. Pharmacists must get educated, get involved in advocacy efforts like PUTT, and contact their representatives to support the Pharmacist Fought Back Act and fight back against the predatory practices of PBMs.
Abbreviations:
PBMs: Pharmacy Benefit Managers
MAC: Maximum Allowable Cost
AWP: Average Wholesale Pricing
ACA: Affordable Care Act
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GUEST: Jeremy Counts
Podcast: PBM on the Rocks
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hokiepharm/
Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency (PUTT): https://www.truthrx.org/
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Chapters
00:00 Intro
10:50 PBM breakdown
20:55 Vertical Integration and retaliations
35:42 Pharmacy reimbursement horror
46:22 PBMs taking advantage of the pandemic efforts
50:25 No transparency
59:45 Pharmacy Fight Back Act
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Follow us on social media
▷Hey Rx Friends, We Got This!
https://linktr.ee/Heyrxfriends
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyrxfriendswgt
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heyrxfriendswgt
YouTube: Hey Friends We Got This
▷Thu
https://linktr.ee/empoweredpharmd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered.pharmd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tn-empowered-pharmd
Substack: https://drthurx.substack.com/
▷Saley:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reziprep360
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/straore1
X: ReziPrep360
YouTube: @ReziPrep360
Business inquiries: [email protected]
Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.
Oct 15, 2024
1 hr 8 min
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