A Journey of Growth, Conversation, and Community (14th April 2025 to 9th Feb 2026)

When PharmaChat launched its very first episode on 14 April 2025, the goal was simple but ambitious: to create a dedicated space for Australian Consultant Pharmacists to learn, connect, and grow together. We know that pharmacy roles are ever-evolving, and pharmacists are increasingly seeking practical, peer-led discussion on topics that matter – your hosts Debbie Hawthorne, Karalyn Huxhagen, and Sofia Cabrera set out to fill a gap: a conversational, friendly, clinically relevant podcast made for consultant pharmacists, by consultant pharmacists. Fifteen episodes later, and backed by the Consultant Pharmacists of Australia (CoPA) Facebook group, the community that has formed around PharmaChat has not only exceeded expectations – it has shaped the direction of the podcast in ways we could never have predicted. Episode by Episode Across our first 15 episodes, PharmaChat built a rich library of conversations, resources, and practical insights, and although it's just a small piece of the breadth of consultant pharmacy practice today, we are so proud of the progress made thus far. Episode 1 kicked off with What Is a Consultant Pharmacist? – our foundational conversation that set the tone for practical, grounded learning. From there, the series immediately expanded into the most sought-after topics in the field: Building the Profession How to Set Up a HMR Business (Parts 1 and 2). These quickly became some of our most replayed episodes – proof that consultant pharmacists value real-world advice from peers who've done the work. Clinical Conversations Across 2025, PharmaChat tackled key clinical domains shaping pharmacy practice today: Managing Cholesterol ADHD with Kate Tognarini Medicinal Cannabis with Janelle Dockray Continuous Glucose Monitoring Heart Failure with Joanne Gross Asthma Updates with Debbie Rigby These episodes brought listeners directly into conversation with experts, translating complex guidelines and emerging evidence into practical takeaways for consultations, reviews, and patient care. Tools, Technology and the Future Tools of the Trade for a Medication Review Artificial Intelligence (Parts 1 and 2) with Krysti-Lee Patterson These topics pushed the boundaries of traditional pharmacy topics, exploring how pharmacists can leverage technology to enhance patient care. Industry and Program Reflections ACOP Discussion with Neil Petrie GP Pharmacy with Brooke Shelly Essential listening for anyone navigating or interested in consultant pharmacist programs in Australia as we hear from two experts who've been there and reflect on their experiences, highlights, and challenges. Emerging Patient Safety Issues Vitamin B6 Toxicity with Angus Thompson – a timely episode that later became especially relevant following national media coverage and TGA action. Angus shared his wealth of knowledge and experience on this topic and what pharmacists can look out for. What Listeners Told Us and How It Shaped the Future As the audience grew nationwide, one message came through loud and clear: "We love the content – but we want an easier way to listen, learn, and access resources." Listeners wanted: A smoother listening experience Centralised access to episode notes and referenced resources Notifications for new episodes directly to their devices A modern app for all PharmaChat content More ways to stay connected to hosts and guests So we've taken action! Introducing the New PharmaChat App Available now on iOS and Android – we are thrilled to announce the launch of the PharmaChat Podcast mobile app, built specifically to support consultant pharmacists on-the-go. What's inside Exclusive links and resources for every episode Seamless playback experience Push notifications so you never miss new content A dedicated news hub from the Australian pharmacy sector Easy access to contact hosts and guest speakers All episodes in one beautifully organised library PharmaChat has always been about supporting you at every career stage – whether you're just beginning your journey or shaping national policy. The new app takes that mission further. We want to hear more from you! From Episode 1 to Episode 15, PharmaChat has grown because pharmacists across Australia chose to engage, share, reflect, and learn together. This next chapter is a direct result of your feedback, your enthusiasm, and your commitment to the profession. And we want to hear more! Write to us in the Contact Us page, what topics do you want us to cover? Which guest speakers do you want to hear from? How else can we improve your listening experience? Thank you for being part of the PharmaChat community.