In this gripping episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck talks with Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, former CDC leader and infectious disease expert, about the deepening crisis inside America’s public health institutions.

Dr. Daskalakis recounts the CDC shooting tragedy that left Officer David Rose dead and staff traumatized, while exposing how misinformation, ideology, and political control are dismantling scientific integrity from within. He explains how the CDC has lost much of its leadership, credibility, and expertise, and warns of a “dark age” for public health.

They discuss the emotional toll on physicians, the parallels to authoritarian regimes, and how doctors can fight back through truth-telling, professional solidarity, and self-care.

A sobering yet hopeful call to action for the medical community, and anyone who believes science still matters.

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In this episode of The Interesting MD Podcast, Dr. Rob Beck talks with Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, infectious disease physician and former CDC leader, about his decision to resign amid growing concerns over the agency’s politicization and loss of scientific independence.

Dr. Daskalakis describes troubling internal changes at the CDC, from abrupt vaccine policy shifts to the removal of expert committees and replacement by conspiracy voices—and how these moves are crippling public health infrastructure. Together, he and Rob unpack how political interference, mass layoffs, and disinformation are threatening public trust and physician safety alike.

A revealing and urgent conversation about science, policy, and the future of public health in America.

Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/

Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com

Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com

In the final episode of this two-part series, host Dr. Rob Beck continues his thought-provoking conversation with Stephen Marche, author of The Next Civil War and The Last Election.

They explore how political violence, institutional decay, and societal polarization in the United States are beginning to impact physicians and healthcare professionals. Marche outlines how doctors can become targets in unstable societies, while Rob shares his personal reflections on moving to Canada for safety and stability after witnessing crises firsthand.

The discussion ends with a powerful call to self-awareness and preparation, for doctors, families, and citizens navigating an uncertain future.

A fitting conclusion to a compelling two-part exploration of politics, safety, and the human side of practicing medicine in turbulent times.

Podcast Link: The Interesting MD Podcast YouTube Link: The Interesting MD Website Link: https://www.interestingmd.com/

Have a content suggestion? Email us at Ideas@interestingmd.com

Contact me Email us at Rob@interestingmd.com