In this episode of Doctor Friends, emergency physicians Rosny, Christian, Tomás and Grace are joined by Dr. Taylor Nichols, MD – an addiction medicine specialist. The discussion covers substance use disorders and the concept of harm reduction. Taylor shares insights into the impact of drug use on medical practice, his experiences in emergency medicine and the importance of approaching substance use with empathy and evidence-based practices. The doctors also unpack some of the stigma around harm reduction and propose policy-level solutions like overdose prevention sites and medically-assisted treatment.

This episode was recorded remotely in January 2026. Presented by Rosny, Christian, Tomás, and Grace. Music by Nylonia. Produced by Ilia Rogatchevski.

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Follow Taylor on TikTok @tnicholsmd and make sure to check out his podcast Recovery Reform, which is available on your favourite podcast app and YouTube.

Substance abuse and mental health services administration SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.

Safespot Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

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In this festive season finale, emergency physicians Grace, Christian, Tomás, and Rosny review the highs and lows of 2025 and share their “hot cakes” for the coming year.

The doctors reflect on personal milestones alongside how the wider challenges of American healthcare impact their work. The episode also features their producer Ilia for a new segment, Asking for a Friend, answering listener questions about their close friendships and unique experiences of working in the emergency department during the holidays. Lastly, they predict trends for 2026, including the positive use of AI in medicine and the critical role that immigrants play in providing healthcare.

This episode was recorded remotely in December 2025. Presented by Grace, Christian, Tomás and Rosny. Music by Nylonia. Produced by Ilia Rogatchevski.

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Why is the proliferation of quick fixes such as detoxes, fad diets and weight loss injections so prevalent online? Is it really a shortcut to getting fitter and healthier? Why is the focus shifting onto these products and services when what people actually need are structural changes like access to affordable housing, child care, clean air and healthy food?

In this episode of the Doctor Friends podcast emergency physicians Christian and Rosny are joined by Italo, who works in social emergency medicine, to discuss the social determinants of health in America. Italo explains his role in community health initiatives and the importance of addressing structural drivers of health.

The conversation explores how structural changes are crucial for lasting improvements and strategies are suggested for clinicians to better serve their communities, including attending city council meetings, creating resource lists and effectively communicating with policymakers. The episode underscores the need for systemic change and active involvement from healthcare providers to bridge gaps in healthcare access and equity.

This episode was recorded remotely in October 2025. Presented by Christian, Rosny and Italo. Music by Nylonia. Produced by Ilia Rogatchevski.

Liked the episode? Tell your friends! Follow us on Instagram or write to us at doctorfriendspodcast@gmail.com.

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