MSL Talk

By MSL Talk Podcast

MSL Talk, hosted by Tom Caravela, MSL Recruiter and Founder of The Carolan Group, offers insights for Medical Science Liaisons, aspiring MSLs, and Medical Affairs leaders.... more

4.8

125125 ratings

Download on the App Store

Download on the App Store

Get it on Google Play

FAQs about MSL Talk:

How many episodes does MSL Talk have?

The podcast currently has 254 episodes available.

MSL Talk episodes:

September 22, 2020Resume Writing and Editing for Medical Science Liaisons
In this episode, Tom Caravela delves into the art of crafting a standout resume tailored for MSL roles. He begins with an overview of a resume webinar, offering insights into MSL job requirements and essential resume tips. Tom discusses the ideal resume length, ATS considerations, and the importance of tailoring resumes to specific job descriptions. He emphasizes resume branding, professional summaries, and effective formatting. The episode also covers showcasing tenure, impactful language, and what to omit. Tom advises on managing multiple resume versions, synchronizing LinkedIn profiles, and updating cover letters. The episode concludes with additional resources and a reminder to subscribe.
Today is a special solo episode by request. We’re going to talk about resume writing and editing for Medical Science Liaisons.
In this episode we discuss:
Understanding the typical requirements for MSLs
How long should the resume be
Resume with the proper keywords
Take time to align your skills and experience to your resume based upon the key skills, responsibilities, and requirements documented in the job description
Make your resume stand out
Have strong communication and presentation skills
Brand yourself
Include a professional summary
Things not to include
Revisit LinkedIn profile and resume every 6 months
(0:00) Introduction to the episode and overview of resume webinar
(3:01) MSL job requirements and resume tips
(7:26) Ideal resume length and ATS considerations
(15:42) Tailoring resume to job descriptions and highlighting expertise
(23:10) Resume branding and professional summary
(28:37) Resume formatting and contact information
(31:37) Showcasing tenure and using impactful language
(33:29) What to omit from your resume
(35:16) Managing and proofreading multiple resume versions
(38:30) Synchronizing LinkedIn with your resume
(39:21) Cover letter and resume update strategies
(41:14) Closing remarks and additional resources
(41:55) Podcast outro and subscription reminder
...more
43min
September 15, 2020An Unexpected Journey From Novice MSL to Global Medical Excellence Leader with Tonya Johnson
In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Dr. Tanya Johnson, who shares her inspiring journey from Newark to becoming a Medical Science Liaison (MSL). Tanya emphasizes the importance of networking and mentorship in the MSL field and offers insights into building and maintaining strong Key Opinion Leader (KOL) relationships. She discusses career development strategies, the roles of mentors and sponsors, and proactive career management. Tanya also explores the global medical excellence leader role and highlights key skills and emotional intelligence necessary for MSLs today. The episode concludes with Tanya's thoughts on future directions for MSLs.
My guest today is Dr. Tonya Johnson, she was a former Global Medical leader of MSL Excellence. We discuss TJ’s trek from no experience to Global Medical Affairs leader.
In this episode we discuss:
Who is Tonya
Transitioning to the industry
The concept of mentors and sponsors
The approach to finding a mentor or a sponsor
Finding mentors
What is Global Medical Excellence
What skills are mandatory for the MSLs of today
(0:00) Introduction and welcome to Dr. Tanya Johnson
(2:02) Tanya Johnson's journey from Newark to MSL
(7:05) The significance of networking and mentorship for MSLs
(10:03) Building and maintaining KOL relationships
(16:20) Career development strategies for MSLs
(20:26) Understanding mentors and sponsors in your career
(25:07) How to proactively manage your MSL career
(27:11) Navigating mentorship and workplace dynamics
(30:14) Exploring the global medical excellence leader role
(35:19) Key skills and emotional intelligence for MSLs today
(39:45) Closing thoughts and future directions
...more
42min
September 08, 2020Field MSL Leadership Panel - MSL QA Session PART TWO with Vanessa Jacobsen, Amy Misnik, and Sue Watson
In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Amy Misnick, Vanessa Jacobson, and Sue Watson to explore a range of topics crucial for current and aspiring Medical Science Liaisons. The discussion covers the transition into the MSL role, including necessary certifications and experiences, and how to craft an effective resume using the right keywords. They also address the impact of the pandemic on MSL performance and the importance of virtual introductions to Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs). The speakers offer insights on demonstrating MSL value within organizations, overcoming experience barriers, and the criteria for ending KOL relationships. They conclude with advice for industry newcomers and a reminder to embrace growth opportunities.
We are part two of our Field MSL Leadership panel, MSL Q&A session with Vanessa Jacobsen, Amy Misnik, and Sue Watson.
In this episode we discuss:
What experience or certification can help someone transition into the MSL position
How is MSL performance assessed during COVID and the best advice to achieve success
What keywords are important to include in the resume
Advice for a newly hired MSL during COVID on how to make a lasting impact when introducing themselves to KOLs for the first time virtually
How to overcome the job listed requirement of must have prior MSL experience (as an aspiring MSL)
How’s training evolving to keep up with the pace of healthcare innovation
Showing one’s value internally as an MSL
Under what conditions should MSLs discontinue KOL relationship or at what point should an MSL stop trying to connect
Advice moving into the rest of COVID and into 2021
Advice to younger self
(0:00) Introduction and guest welcome
(0:42) Surveying LinkedIn for MSL questions
(1:06) Transitioning into an MSL role: Certifications and experiences
(2:46) Assessing MSL performance in the pandemic
(5:38) Crafting an effective MSL resume with keywords
(8:58) Virtual introductions to KOLs
(11:29) Overcoming the requirement for prior MSL experience
(16:52) Training needs for MSLs in a changing environment
(19:37) Demonstrating MSL value within the organization
(21:35) Criteria for ending KOL relationships
(25:24) Consolidated advice for current and aspiring MSLs
(27:12) Encouragement for recent industry graduates
(28:21) Embracing challenges and growth opportunities
(29:03) Expressing gratitude for the MSL role and looking ahead
(30:15) Host's thanks and future guest plans
(30:48) Conclusion and reminder to subscribe
...more
32min
September 01, 2020Field MSL Leadership Panel - MSL QA Session PART ONE with Vanessa Jacobsen, Amy Misnik, and Sue Watson
In this episode, Tom Caravela hosts a panel discussion with guests Sue Watson, Amy Misnik, and Vanessa Jacobson, who share their insights on the MSL role. Sue discusses the best industry experiences for aspiring MSLs and the evolving future of the role post-COVID. Amy offers advice on approaching potential mentors and standing out in interviews, while Vanessa focuses on making an impact as a new MSL and provides guidance for students and new graduates. The episode also touches on the value of MSL certifications. Closing remarks hint at a continuation in a forthcoming part 2.
Today I have Sue Watson, Amy Misnik, and Vanessa Jacobsen joining me for our first ever MSL field leadership panel QA session. They are the first people that came on as guests, the pioneers of the MSL Talk podcast.
In this episode we discuss:
For aspiring MSLs with experience mainly in academia, what specific types of industry experiences are best to obtain prior to applying for the first MSL role
How does a person approach a potential mentor and how open are Medical Affair leaders to accept this request and what is the eligible criteria for a mentee
How can one transition to MSL position and make an impact for the first 3 - 6 months
Expecting the role to change in a post-COVID world
How does an aspiring MSL stand out vs. a seasoned MSL who’s going through the same rounds of interview
Piece of advice if they would go back and give themselves as new graduates
Does certification really give an aspiring or an experienced MSL an advantage
(0:00) Introduction and panel guest introductions
(3:28) Format and guest Sue Watson on best industry experiences for aspiring MSLs
(5:43) Amy Misnik on approaching potential mentors
(9:15) Vanessa Jacobson on making an impact as a new MSL
(11:08) Sue Watson on the future of the MSL role post-COVID
(12:59) Amy Misnik on standing out in MSL interviews
(16:26) Vanessa Jacobson's advice for students and new graduates
(17:19) Sue Watson on the value of MSL certifications
(21:09) Closing remarks and part 2 announcement
...more
22min
August 25, 2020MSL Interviews GONE WRONG... Shocking stories of what NOT to do Live or Virtual with Anita Carvalho
In this episode, Anita Carvalho joins Tom Caravela to delve into the nuances of MSL interviews. Anita shares her experiences, highlighting both common and unusual occurrences during virtual interviews. The conversation covers essential preparation techniques, handling unexpected interruptions, and maintaining professionalism. They discuss the impact of distractions, such as phones, and offer tips on effective note-taking and avoiding filler words. Anita also provides insights on MSL presentation practices, attire considerations, and emotional composure. The episode concludes with advice on engaging with interviewers, the importance of thank you notes, and recognizing genuine interest in MSL roles.
My guest today is Anita Carvalho, Staffing Consultant at FerGene. We talk about MSL interviews gone wrong, shocking stories of what not to do live or virtual. A really great conversation, funny stuff, you guys will like it.
In this episode we discuss:
Anita’s background
Stories of virtual interviews gone wrong
Get rid of phones during interviews
Anita’s advice
Using filler words
Things that have gone wrong and best practices as it relates to the presentation of preparation for the presentation
Questions to ask the interviewer
Sending thank-you notes
(0:00) Introduction to episode and guest Anita Carvalho
(0:41) Anita Carvalho's background and MSL interview experiences
(2:40) Unusual virtual interview occurrences
(4:07) Coaching and preparation for interviews
(7:02) Unexpected interruptions during interviews
(8:24) Inappropriate applicant behavior
(12:11) Professionalism and communication in interviews
(15:10) The issue with distractions and phones
(17:28) Effective note-taking strategies
(19:32) Avoiding overuse of filler words
(21:36) MSL presentation best practices
(26:09) Wardrobe and emotional interview mishaps
(32:50) Engaging with interviewers and asking questions
(35:52) The significance of thank you notes
(38:49) Discerning genuine interest in MSL roles
...more
41min
August 18, 2020The 2 Most Critical Elements of MSL Territory Excellence with Julie Montiel
In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Julie Montiel to explore the nuances of MSL territory excellence and the critical role of scientific acumen. They delve into strategies for achieving scientific acumen and crafting effective, individualized territory plans. The conversation highlights the significance of pre-call and post-call planning in managing territories, as well as adapting strategies for virtual and digital engagements. Julie shares tips to enhance virtual presentation skills, concluding with a recap on creating a plan for territory excellence. The episode wraps up with closing remarks on the importance of key MSL strategies and a call to action for listeners.
My guest today is Julie Montiel, the National Scientific Director, Lymphoma/Myeloid MSL at The Janssen. We talk about the two most critical of MSL territory excellence.
In this episode we discuss:
Julie’s background
The two most critical elements
How MSLs improve their performance
What is scientific acumen
Why is scientific acumen the most important element of territory excellence
What does excellence in scientific acumen look like?
Every territory is different
Applying principles to a virtual type of scenario
How MSLs bring all of these pieces of information together to build strategic territory excellence
(0:00) Introduction to the episode and guest Julie Montiel
(2:31) Discussing critical elements of MSL territory excellence and scientific acumen
(6:24) Strategies for achieving and implications of scientific acumen
(12:05) Crafting and individualizing strategic territory plans
(20:14) The role of pre-call and post-call planning in territory management
(24:15) Adapting MSL strategies for virtual and digital engagement
(27:40) Tips for enhancing virtual presentation skills
(29:23) Recap on building a plan for territory excellence
(31:09) Closing remarks and importance of key MSL strategies
(32:11) Outro and call to action
...more
33min
August 11, 202018. Career Transition From Clinician to Medical Science Liaison with Monica Sukhatme
My guest today is Monica Sukhatme, Executive Director, National Head, MSLs and we discuss her career transition from Clinician to Medical Science Liaison.

In this episode we discuss:

Monica’s background and her transition to the industry

The challenges she faced along the way

Skills to be developed and advice for others looking to make the same type of transition

Monica’s perspective on mentors

Importance of networking

What is the most important for Monica when interviewing candidates

From being an MSL to an Executive Director

Monica’s advice to folks who are looking to make the same transition that she did and how to get themselves in the right position
...more
37min
August 04, 2020The MSL Career Ladder…What options are available and how to position yourself for advancement with Davida White
In this episode, Davida White shares her insights on the evolving landscape of Medical Science Liaison roles and medical affairs. She discusses her career journey and emphasizes the importance of growth opportunities, particularly through medical support roles. Davida highlights the significance of taking initiative, prioritizing experience over job titles, and setting career goals with leadership. She also delves into the role of mentorship and networking in career advancement. The conversation touches on adapting to post-COVID-19 changes and the strategic value of lateral career moves. The episode concludes with Davida's thoughts on summertime plans.
My guest today is Davida White, US Oncology Field Medical Alignment Director at Merck and we discuss the MSL Career Ladder and what career options are available to MSLs as well as how to position yourself for promotion.
In this episode:
Davida’s background and her work now
Her journey and transition to the industry
What options are available past the title or the role of an MSL
Pursuing some of these career options for MSLs
Management development programs
Her take on mentors and mentorship type programs
Skills to be developed for MSLs to advance their careers
Advice for people to help them get noticed and what steps should be taken
(0:00) Introduction of guest Davita White and episode topic
(1:06) Davita White's background and career journey
(3:58) Growth and opportunities for MSLs
(6:44) Exploring medical support roles and excellence positions
(9:23) Career paths within in-house medical affairs
(11:02) The value of initiative in career advancement
(13:04) Prioritizing experience over job titles
(17:55) Setting and discussing career goals with leadership
(20:25) The role of mentorship in MSL career development
(22:53) Developing key skills for career progression
(25:14) The importance of networking and relationship-building
(27:34) Adjusting to the medical field's changes post-COVID-19
(29:42) Lateral moves as a strategic career approach
(31:18) Episode wrap-up and summertime plans
...more
33min
July 28, 2020The transition from individual contributor to Medical Affairs leader with Gina Ferrari
In this episode, Gina Ferrari shares her journey into the pharmaceutical industry and her progression to an MSL manager role. She provides insights on career advancement strategies, emphasizing the value of taking on additional responsibilities and the impact of mentorship on career development. Gina discusses leadership development programs and the importance of mastering internal networking and company politics. She highlights the need for flexibility and effective communication in supporting team goals while balancing leadership responsibilities. The episode concludes with Gina's advice on documenting achievements and a look towards the future.
My guest today is Gina Ferrari, National Director MSLs and we discuss her transition from Individual Contributor to Medical Affairs Leadership.
In this episode:
Gina’s background
How she transitioned from an MSL to a Medical Affairs Leader
Skills to be developed in preparation for promotion and how MSLs can position themselves the same way Gina did
Finding mentors
Management training programs
Importance of internal networking
Gina’s advice for people to help them get noticed and the steps to follow
(0:00) Introduction of Gina Ferrari and Welcome
(2:28) Transitioning into the Pharma Industry and MSL Roles
(5:52) Career Advancement: MSL Manager and Leadership
(11:13) Career Path Strategies for Aspiring MSLs
(14:19) Taking on Extra Responsibilities for Career Growth
(16:27) The Role of Mentors in Career Development
(19:17) Leadership Development and Management Programs
(21:47) Mastering Internal Networking and Company Politics
(27:00) Flexibility and Communication in Team Support
(29:21) Leadership: Balancing Goals and Team Support
(31:10) Embracing Flexibility and Documenting Achievements
(33:04) Closing Remarks and Future Outlook
(34:07) Sponsor: [Name of Sponsor]
...more
35min
July 21, 2020How to successfully recruit and hire MSLs VIRTUALLY with Paula Pearson
My guest today is Paula Pearson, Senior Director, Field Medical at Apellis and we discuss how to successfully recruit and hire MSLs virtually.
In this episode:
Paula’s background
About Apellis and size of the team
The changes Paula has to make once COVID hit
The challenges Paula face along the way with this new process
Some of the advantages of virtual interviewing
How do candidates differentiate themselves in a virtual interview
What was most appealing to Paula and what behaviors that candidates should NOT do
Advice to hiring managers
How Paula sees the future of recruiting for the next few months and the next few years
(0:00) Introduction to guest Paula Pearson and episode topic
(2:26) Overview of Paula's current company and team dynamics
(3:21) Evolution of the hiring process from pre-COVID to current virtual strategies
(7:57) Constructing an effective interview panel and overcoming challenges of virtual interviews
(12:26) Assessing candidates’ technological aptitude and differentiating strong candidates virtually
(15:41) Candidate behaviors that impact virtual interview outcomes
(17:07) Insights for hiring managers in the era of virtual recruitment
(20:33) Future outlook on recruiting and performance evaluation post-COVID
(23:01) Addressing MSL leaders' concerns and the importance of video engagement
(26:35) Final advice for MSLs, managers, and job seekers
(27:26) Closing remarks and thanks to Paula Pearson
...more
29min

FAQs about MSL Talk:

How many episodes does MSL Talk have?

The podcast currently has 254 episodes available.

More shows like MSL Talk

BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast by BiggerPockets

BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast

16,810 Listeners

Motivation with Brendon Burchard by Brendon Burchard

Motivation with Brendon Burchard

3,636 Listeners

The Best Ever CRE Show by Joe Fairless

The Best Ever CRE Show

987 Listeners

BiggerPockets Money Podcast by BiggerPockets

BiggerPockets Money Podcast

3,072 Listeners

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques by Matt Abrahams, Think Fast Talk Smart

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

770 Listeners

Real Estate Rookie by BiggerPockets

Real Estate Rookie

1,827 Listeners

Medical Affairs Unscripted by Lumanity Medical Affairs Consulting

Medical Affairs Unscripted

4 Listeners

MSL Consultant Podcast by MSL

MSL Consultant Podcast

17 Listeners

ReThinking by TED

ReThinking

619 Listeners

Good Inside with Dr. Becky by Dr. Becky Kennedy

Good Inside with Dr. Becky

4,324 Listeners

The One MSL Podcast: Field Medical Excellence by One MSL

The One MSL Podcast: Field Medical Excellence

1 Listeners

Money For Couples with Ramit Sethi by Ramit Sethi

Money For Couples with Ramit Sethi

3,312 Listeners

The BetterLife Podcast: Wealth | Real Estate Investing | Life by Brandon Turner & Cam Cathcart

The BetterLife Podcast: Wealth | Real Estate Investing | Life

816 Listeners

MSL 411 by Ashley Armstead, CPC at SEMbio

MSL 411

0 Listeners

The Jefferson Fisher Podcast by Civility Media

The Jefferson Fisher Podcast

7,555 Listeners