In this episode, Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam, former Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, shares his remarkable journey from a market town in Lincolnshire to the national stage during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Known for his honesty, clarity, and trademark analogies, JVT reflects on his family’s extraordinary story, the challenges of breaking into medicine, and the pivotal choices that shaped his career in public health.

He talks candidly about stepping into leadership “by accident,” managing the pressure of being thrust into the spotlight, and navigating the uneasy intersection of science and politics. Along the way, he opens up about imposter syndrome, the personal costs of public service, and the lessons he hopes will inspire the next generation of leaders.

🕰️ Highlights

02:00 – Early Life & Family Influence

04:00 – Getting Into Medicine

06:00 – Path to Public Health & Pharma

12:00 – Becoming Deputy CMO

17:00 – Thrust Into the Spotlight

25:00 – Imposter Syndrome

32:00 – Science, Politics & Pressure

39:00 – The Power of Communication

49:00 – Work-Life Balance & Personal Cost

58:00 – Reflections & Legacy

57:00 – Quickfire Round

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