Ever wondered if eggs really need to be refrigerated? Why astronauts don’t catch colds on the ISS? Or what connects a fungal rash on your foot to a ring on your arm? In this listener-powered episode of Germs & Jargon, Dr. Miller and Jonathan dive into your submitted questions from how fevers help your body fight back, to the surprising science behind athlete’s foot and ringworm. It's a whirlwind of microbiology, infectious disease trivia, and some myth-busting along the way.🔬 Topics covered:Do fevers help or hurt?The cold truth about microbes on the ISSWhy egg storage differs across countriesRingworm vs. athlete’s foot—same fungus, different PRTune in for answers, laughs, and a few “ew” moments.Disclaimer: this podcast and its hosts and guests are delivering educational material. They are not providing professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned that you might have a medical illness, seek appropriate healthcare.
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Famous, Infected & Unexpected
In this compelling episode of Germs & Jargon, we uncover the surprising infectious disease stories behind some of the most iconic celebrities: Rosie O'Donnell’s battle with a rare bacterial infection, Justin Bieber’s diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt syndrome, Christopher Reeve’s struggle with chronic infections after his spinal injury, and the tragic case of Jim Henson’s fatal bacterial pneumonia.Join us as we explore how these infectious diseases affected their lives, careers, and legacies and what their stories reveal about early symptoms, delayed treatment, and public awareness. From viral syndromes to bacterial killers, we break down the science, symptoms, and stigma behind these illnesses.Whether you're into microbiology, celebrity health stories, or just love fascinating medical history, this episode is packed with insight, science, and storytelling.Disclaimer: this podcast and its hosts and guests are delivering educational material. They are not providing professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned that you might have a medical illness, seek appropriate healthcare.
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22:35
Infectious Diseases Of The Brain
In this episode of Germs & Jargon, we’re diving deep into the brain’s worst enemies, infectious diseases! From meningitis to encephalitis, these brain-busting bugs have more tricks up their sleeves than a magician on a caffeine binge. Dr. Mark Miller and Jonathan Hope break down the science behind these neurological invaders, explaining how they affect the brain and the body. We’ll cover symptoms, treatment options, and the latest in brain infection research. It’s a topic that might make you think twice before Googling “brain fog”!Tune in to understand the often-overlooked connection between infectious diseases and your brain, with a little humor to keep it light. It’s science with a side of snark!Disclaimer: this podcast and its hosts and guests are delivering educational material. They are not providing professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned that you might have a medical illness, seek appropriate healthcare.
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33:34
Buzzkill: The West Nile Files
In this episode of Germs & Jargon, we dive into everything you need to know about West Nile virus—from how it spreads through mosquito bites, to common and severe symptoms, and the latest insights on prevention and treatment. Kicking things off with a nod to Edgar Allan Poe, co-hosts Dr. Mark Miller (infectious disease expert) and Jonathan Hope mix science and storytelling to make this important virus easier to understand. Whether you're a science nerd, a curious listener, or just wondering if that mosquito bite is something more, this episode has you covered.Disclaimer: this podcast and its hosts and guests are delivering educational material. They are not providing professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned that you might have a medical illness, seek appropriate healthcare.
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Culture Queries #1 - Q&A
In this special Q&A episode of Germs & Jargon, infectious disease expert Dr. Mark Miller answers listener-submitted questions on microbiology, immunology, and infectious diseases. Curious about how viruses spread? Wondering about antibiotic resistance or vaccines? Dr. Miller breaks down complex topics into clear, easy-to-understand answers — with real-world insights and no complicated jargon. Whether you're passionate about science, healthcare, or just want to stay informed, this episode delivers valuable information straight from a top infectious disease specialist. Tune in and get smarter about the germs and immunity that impact your daily life!Disclaimer: this podcast and its hosts and guests are delivering educational material. They are not providing professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned that you might have a medical illness, seek appropriate healthcare.
Welcome to Germs & Jargon, where science meets storytelling! Join Dr. Miller, an infectious disease expert, and Jonathan Hope, your curious co-host, as they break down microbiology (the study of germs), immunology (our ability to fight off disease), and infectious diseases into bite-sized, easy-to-understand conversations.
We tackle the microscopic world in a way that makes sense—no special training or knowledge required. Dr. Miller unpacks the jargon around the germs, while Jonathan asks the questions you really want answered.
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