The Germs and Jargon Podcast

Modern medicine did not just happen. It was built through centuries of trial error curiosity and a few truly astonishing breakthroughs. In this episode of Germs & Jargon, we explore the greatest medical miracles that transformed healthcare and saved billions of lives.We begin with vaccines and how they reshaped public health prevented deadly infectious diseases and changed the course of human history. From smallpox eradication to modern mRNA vaccines we explain how immunology became one of the most powerful tools in medicine.Next we examine antibiotics, the accidental discovery that revolutionized medicine surgery and infection control. We discuss penicillin antibiotic resistance superbugs and why antibiotics remain both lifesaving and widely misunderstood.We then step inside the human body through the lens of medical imaging technology. We break down how MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging uses magnets and physics to create detailed images without radiation. We explain how CT scans or Computed Tomography are used in trauma stroke and emergency medicine. We also explore PET scans or Positron Emission Tomography and how radioactive tracers help detect cancer brain activity and metabolic disease.Along the way we decode medical abbreviations and healthcare jargon that make medicine sound confusing and inaccessible and translate them into clear human language.This episode is perfect for listeners interested in medical science healthcare innovation microbiology immunology and modern medical technology.Vaccines and public healthAntibiotics and infectious diseaseMRI CT scans and PET scans explainedMedical miracles that changed historyMedical abbreviations made simpleHow biology physics and technology power modern medicineFollow Germs & Jargon for science driven conversations about medicine microbes and the discoveries that shape our lives. New episodes released regularly.Topics Covered

In this storytime episode, Dr. Miller shares a real-life medical case that starts out like any ordinary visit, but takes an unexpected turn when the patient is discovered to have Ascaris, a type of parasitic roundworm.Through this fascinating case, you’ll hear how Ascaris worms (Ascaris lumbricoides) can quietly live inside the human body, the surprising symptoms they cause, and how doctors diagnose and treat this parasitic infection. Blending storytelling with medical insight, Dr. Miller walks us through the twists and turns of a patient encounter that shows just how strange (and squirmy) the world of human parasites can be.You’ll learn:The story of a patient with an unexpected Ascaris infectionHow roundworms affect human health and spread worldwideWhat this case teaches us about infectious diseases and patient careIf you’re curious about parasites, microbiology, unusual medical cases, or the science behind worms, this episode delivers an unforgettable mix of medicine and storytelling.

In this hilarious and eye-opening episode of Germs & Jargon, we’re flipping the script with another round of Science Swap. This time, I, your friendly neighbourhood layman, take a stab at explaining the terrifying and fascinating disease known as rabies, from symptoms to transmission and treatment. Spoiler: I may not have all the facts right.Luckily, Dr. Mark Miller, infectious disease expert, joins in to set the record straight. He breaks down the real science behind how rabies spreads, why it’s so deadly, and what modern medicine can (and can’t) do about it.If you’ve ever wondered how much you really know about one of the most feared viruses in history, or just want to hear me get corrected in real time, this one’s for you.🧠 Keywords: Rabies, infectious disease, virus, science podcast, microbiology, public health, zoonotic diseases, Dr. Mark Miller, Germs & Jargon, Science Swap

In this fun and enlightening episode of Germs & Jargon, we’re flipping the script in our brand-new Science Swap format! Jonathan, your curious layman host, takes a shot at explaining one of the most pressing issues in modern medicine: antibiotic resistance.How close can he get to the real science? Enter Dr. Miller—our resident microbiologist and infectious disease expert—who will grade, correct, and clarify the explanation while dropping real, research-backed insights.Expect laughs, learning, and a few science stumbles along the way as we explore:What causes antibiotic resistance?Why it’s a global health threatMisconceptions about antibioticsHow we can all help slow resistanceIf you’ve ever wondered what “superbugs” are or why your doctor won’t always prescribe antibiotics, this episode is for you.

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 ISS​Why egg storage differs across countries​Ringworm 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.