Write Medicine

Most people in CME and medical writing are using AI. Fewer have an actual workflow — something documented, repeatable, and defensible enough to explain to a client or compliance reviewer. This episode explores why that gap matters, what a staged workflow looks like in practice, and why this is becoming a professional differentiator right now. In this episode: Ready to build your workflow? The AI Practice Lab starts March 9th. Four weeks, eight live sessions, hands-on work with Núria Negrão PhD. You'll leave with a documented, repeatable AI workflow for research, drafting, and quality control — one you can confidently explain to clients and teams. → Join the AI Practice Lab Mentioned in this episode: AI Practice Lab Build a Practical, Safe, Repeatable AI-assisted Workflow in Just 4 Weeks. March 9 - April 2 Move beyond experimenting with AI. In this 4-week practice lab, work hands-on with Núria Negrão to build a documented, repeatable AI workflow for research, drafting, and quality control—one you can confidently explain to clients and teams. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

You already know how to write learning objectives. You reference Bloom’s taxonomy. You understand Moore’s outcomes framework. But here’s the real question: When you write a learning objective, can you clearly identify the two to three specific clinical tasks that must happen for that objective to be achieved? In this episode—based on a webinar I participated in with the Good CME Practice Group—we go deeper than frameworks. We unpack what actually sits underneath a learning objective and how that layer determines whether your CME changes practice… or simply delivers information. What We Explore in This Episode Key Takeaway If you can’t name the specific clinical actions required to meet an objective, the content won’t drive behavior change. Design lives underneath the objective. Next Step If this episode resonated, try this: Take one learning objective from a current project and ask: That exercise alone will elevate your design work. And if you want structured practice applying this level of thinking—with feedback, live coaching, and a community of CME professionals—explore WriteCME Pro. This is where writers become design partners. Resources Good CME Practice Group Mentioned in this episode: AI Practice Lab Build a Practical, Safe, Repeatable AI-assisted Workflow in Just 4 Weeks. March 9 - April 2 Move beyond experimenting with AI. In this 4-week practice lab, work hands-on with Núria Negrão to build a documented, repeatable AI workflow for research, drafting, and quality control—one you can confidently explain to clients and teams. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

In this year-end episode, Alex takes you behind the scenes into a full year of growth inside the WriteCME Pro community. Whether you're just starting in CME or deepening your expertise, you’ll hear the most important trends that emerged among CME writers in 2025—what they struggled with, how they moved forward, and what this means for your own career in 2026. If you want clarity, confidence, and a sense of belonging in the CME world, this episode offers a peek at the path forward. In this episode, you’ll learn: ecosystem You’ll especially benefit if you’re: Learn more or join the community: 12 Days of Giving Secret List WriteCME Pro Mentioned in this episode: 12 Days of Giving This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

What if you ended the year not with burnout or urgency, but with a daily ritual of inspiration, generosity, and creative momentum for your CME writing? As CME writers, so much of our work happens behind the scenes — the interviews, the needs assessments, the outlines, the manuscripts. It’s meaningful work, but it’s often quiet and relentless, yet it carries real impact for learners and patients. This episode takes you behind the curtain into the reflection, intention, and creative spark that inspired the 12 Days of Giving. If you’ve ever wanted to reconnect with the why behind your own writing, this story will resonate. In this episode, you’ll hear: why Press play to step behind the scenes and discover the heart, intention, and creative spark powering this year’s 12 Days of Giving. Ready to join the secret list? Do that here: https://www.alexhowson.com/12-days-interest Mentioned in this episode: 12 Days of Giving This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

In this hot seat coaching conversation, Sarah Jabeen MD, a clinician turned medical writer, brings the honest questions so many emerging CME writers quietly carry: How do I navigate a career pivot without feeling like an imposter? How do I leverage my clinical background without overwhelming my writing? And how do I grow from “new” to “trusted” in the eyes of clients? Together, we unpack what’s underneath each of these questions and explore how identity, confidence, community, and small experiments shape your growth as a CME writer. You’ll hear: Why self-doubt is a normal part of professional transformationHow your clinical experience becomes a true superpowerWhat separates a beginner from a trusted partnerThe role of community and belongingPractical guidance Whether you’re transitioning from clinical practice, entering CME writing from another discipline, or simply looking for more confidence in your craft, this episode offers permission, perspective, and a path forward. Mentioned in this episode: 12 Days of Giving This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

What do you do when your inbox goes quiet and the client work that once filled your calendar suddenly disappears? For many freelance medical writers—especially those transitioning into the CME space—quiet seasons can feel like failure. But what if those fallow periods are actually the most fertile ground for growth? In this conversation with seasoned writer Addie Nagy, we explore how to reframe slow seasons, rebuild confidence, and manage client relationships with steadiness and purpose. You’ll learn how to freelancerbusiness owner Press play to learn how to transform uncertainty into strategy and make every season of your freelance CME writing business work for you. Resources Mentioned Ilise Benun — The Creative Professional's Guide to Money: How to Think About It, How to Talk About it, How to Manage It. 2011. HOW Books. WriteCME Pro — a community and professional network that provides peer support and opportunities to hone CME writing skills. Mentioned in this episode: Alliance Almanac LinkedIn Live AMA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Have you ever hesitated to push back on a client’s “non-negotiable” contract — even when something didn’t feel right? For freelance medical writers, contracts can be one of the most intimidating parts of running a business. Between indemnity clauses, “work made for hire” language, and shifting risk to the writer, it’s easy to feel powerless. In this episode, legal strategist Brionna Ned (The Lawless Lawyer) breaks down how to approach contract negotiations with confidence — so you can protect your work, your income, and your peace of mind. You'll learn how to: leverage pointsindemnitywork made for hire Press play to discover how to build contract confidence, reduce risk, and negotiate terms that support a thriving medical writing business. Connect with Brionna The Lawless Lawyer Instagram Threads LinkedIn Mentioned in this episode: Alliance Almanac LinkedIn Live AMA This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

How do you turn a detailed needs assessment full of data and practice gaps into a clear, learner-centered activity agenda that actually changes clinical practice? If you’ve ever stared at a dense needs assessment wondering how to transform pages of evidence into a coherent educational design, this episode is for you. Many CME writers struggle to bridge the gap between analysis and application—between identifying what clinicians need and structuring how they’ll learn it. In this episode, Alex shares a practical, step-by-step process that helps you connect the dots and design education that makes sense and gets results. By listening, you’ll discover: Aligned, Actionable, Appropriate Press play to learn how to transform data into design—and gain the confidence to craft CME agendas that close gaps and inspire change. 👉 Grab Your Insight-To-Action Framework Mentioned in this episode: Alliance Almanac This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

What if the work that feels invisible is the very thing building your expertise? For many CME writers, the hours spent researching, editing, and shaping educational content happen behind the scenes — valuable, but unseen. Over time, that invisibility can blur your sense of value and readiness. In this Write Medicine hot-seat coaching session, Gina Castiblanco PhD shares what it’s really like to navigate that in-between space — leaving behind a visible academic identity and learning to trust her voice as a CME writer and business owner. Together, we unpack how professional visibility starts with self-awareness, boundaries, and the courage to say, “I’m ready, even if I don’t feel ready yet.” By the end of this conversation, you’ll learn how to: owning Stay to the end of the episode for three practical steps you can take today to start making your invisible work visible — and strengthen your visibility, voice, and value in the CME ecosystem. Mentioned in this episode: Alliance Almanac This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Curious about continuing medical education (CME) writing but not sure how to begin? In this episode, you’ll learn how to turn your medical, academic, or scientific experience into a meaningful, flexible writing career. Discover the five milestones that help you break into CME writing, the key skills every CME writer needs, and real-world insights from the field. 🎧 Tune in now to gain clarity, confidence, and your next steps toward becoming a successful CME writer. Links WriteCME ProChart Your CME Writing PathEpisodes 112 & 115 of Write MedicineAmerican Medical Writers Association (AMWA)CME Writer BootcampWrite Medicine MentorHow to Create Portfolio Samples for CME Writing This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Are you ready to move beyond writing needs assessments and step into the creative, story-driven side of CME—without losing the clients or confidence you’ve already built? Many CME writers start with needs assessments. They’re structured, strategic, and an excellent way to learn the landscape. But what happens when you feel ready for more? When you want to create content that sparks learning, integrates clinical insight, and allows your creativity to shine? In this hot seat coaching episode, we meet Zsuzsa Csik, an anesthesiologist and critical care physician turned CME writer, who’s navigating that exact transition—and learning how to position herself for content work while building a sustainable freelance business. By listening, you’ll discover: Press play now to learn how to move from analysis to creation, and start shaping the CME writing career you really want. Mentioned in this episode: Outcomes Architect Sprint Want to finally master outcomes reports? Join my 4-Week Outcomes Reports Sprint and walk away with a polished, portfolio-ready sample plus templates, coaching, and lifetime tools. Spots are limited—sign up at [insert URL]. CMEpalooza CMEpalooza Fall is a 1-day event scheduled for Wednesday, October 22, that will feature a series of sessions relevant across the CME/CE spectrum. Broadcasts will stream live on the LIVE page of this website and be available for viewing shortly after their conclusion on the Archive page. There is no charge to view or participate in any of these sessions. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

How do you take one complex medical concept and make it clear, accurate, and actionable for both clinicians and patients, without losing credibility? If you’re a CME writer, you know the challenge of translating science into education that actually sticks. But as more CME projects tether clinician education with patient-facing components, the real test is flexing your craft to serve two very different audiences at once. Get this right, and you not only improve learning, you expand your professional scope and impact. In this episode, you’ll discover: 🎧 Tune in now and learn how to expand your CME writing craft into dual-audience education with one portable tool you can start using today. Resources Resources to support plain language, readability, and accessibility. https://readable.com/readability/Cognitive accessibility Patient Education Materials Assessment ToolInformed consent navigator toolPlain Language SummariesPlain Language Checklist for Health Professionals Plain language in biobank consent Plain Language AssociationCognitive accessibilityInformed consent navigator tool Episodes Mentioned EP31EP 41EP109 Practice: Explain one complex idea in three sentences, twice—once for patients, once for clinicians. Take one complex concept: SGLT2 inhibitors reduce heart failure hospitalizations. For patients: What it is:

What if leaving academia—or another tightly defined professional path—felt less like failure and more like freedom? For many academics, clinicians, and researchers, stepping into freelance medical writing isn’t just a career change—it’s a profound identity shift. Too often, this transition carries grief, shame, or the lingering sense of “not enough.” In this episode, we explore how those feelings show up, why they matter, and how to reframe them as fuel for your writing career. By listening, you’ll discover: Press play now to learn how to navigate identity loss, tap into your natural strengths, and take small steps toward building a medical writing business that feels truly your own. Mentioned in this episode: Outcomes Architect Sprint Want to finally master outcomes reports? Join my 4-Week Outcomes Reports Sprint and walk away with a polished, portfolio-ready sample plus templates, coaching, and lifetime tools. Spots are limited—sign up at [insert URL]. Outcomes Architect Sprint Want to finally master outcomes reports? Join my 4-Week Outcomes Reports Sprint and walk away with a polished, portfolio-ready sample plus templates, coaching, and lifetime tools. Spots are limited—sign up at [insert URL]. CMEpalooza CMEpalooza Fall is a 1-day event scheduled for Wednesday, October 22, that will feature a series of sessions relevant across the CME/CE spectrum. Broadcasts will stream live on the LIVE page of this website and be available for viewing shortly after their conclusion on the Archive page. There is no charge to view or participate in any of these sessions. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

What if the CME you design could do more than deliver knowledge—what if it could actually change clinician behavior and improve patient care? As a CME writer or education professional, you’ve likely felt the frustration of producing content that looks strong on paper but doesn’t translate into meaningful practice change. This episode explores how learning science, human-centered design, and patient co-creation can help you bridge the gap between information and impact. By listening, you will discover: Press play now to learn practical strategies you can use to design CME that transforms knowledge into real-world change. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

What does it take to move from order-taker to trusted partner in CME writing? That’s the single question driving this new season of Write Medicine. In this 15-minute teaser episode, Alex introduces the season theme—Craft to Confidence: A CME Writer’s Season of Growth—and gives you a preview of what’s ahead. You’ll hear how guest interviews and solo tactical episodes will work together to help you build your skills, expand your visibility, and strengthen your confidence as a CME writer. Whether you’re transitioning from academia, clinical practice, or another writing specialty, this season will give you both the craft tools and the career clarity to thrive in continuing medical education. Episodes to Look Forward To Designing for learning with Sarah Atwood Hot Seat Coaching on attracting content projects and integrating academic skills into CME Leveraging Milkshake Moments with Michelle Skidmore Identity, trauma, and resilience with Hope Lafferty Solo walk-throughs on interviewing SMEs, turning education gaps and needs into activity agendas, publishing manuscripts, and more

If you’re a medical writer today, you're no stranger to tight deadlines, dense source material, and the pressure to deliver educational content that is both engaging and evidence-based. These demands are particularly acute in the world of continuing medical education (CME), where accuracy, clarity, and relevance matter more than ever. As the medical writing landscape evolves, so do the tools that support us. Among the most promising of these is MACg, a generative AI-powered assistant that helps medical writers streamline document analysis, content creation, and research. For writers working in CME or adjacent fields, MACg offers more than convenience—it offers a meaningful shift in how we work. Tune in to learn how I’m using MACg as a collaborative partner in my workflow rather than a replacement for my creative process. Resources Grab your fee trial of MACg Summer Script Camp

How do you design CME that reaches the communities most affected by HIV—and not just the clinicians who already have access? If you're a CME professional grappling with how to address layered issues like stigma, housing insecurity, or racial disparities, you’re not alone. This episode dives into what it takes to create truly inclusive education—especially when traditional strategies fall short. Whether you’re designing education for clinicians or collaborating with community partners, you’ll find actionable ideas to bring your programming closer to the ground. Specifically, you'll learn: How to build authentic partnerships with community leaders who can serve as trusted bridges between healthcare providers and hard-to-reach populations. The essential infrastructure you need to establish before launching community-based programs, from setting up referral networks that ensure patients don't fall through cracks after screening to tracking both clinical outcomes and demographic data that funders require. A proven framework for developing educational content with cultural humility and how to work with expert faculty who understand nuanced communication challenges. Connect with Dean 🌐 https://DKBMED.COM Resources Signup for Summer Script Camp Get TextExpander

Are you a freelance CME writer juggling too many project types and wondering if it’s time to finally “niche down”? In the world of continuing medical education (CME), clarity and focus aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential for sustainable business growth. If you’re feeling stretched thin, jumping between clients and therapeutic areas, this episode explores how finding a niche can reduce overwhelm, streamline your process, and even attract the kinds of clients who value what you do most. Here’s what you’ll gain from this episode: A practical definition of what a niche is—and what it isn’t—so you can stop second-guessing yourself. Examples of how different niches can emerge from your background, preferences, or even your favorite types of client relationships. A step-by-step approach to experimenting your way into a niche, without the pressure to get it “perfect” from the start. Tune in now to learn how niching can simplify your business, supercharge your marketing, and help you find work that truly energizes you. LINKS Grab the Niche Discovery Checklist Signup for Summer Script Camp

How can continuing education break down professional silos and foster real collaboration among healthcare teams? If you create CME/CE content, you’ve likely encountered the challenge of writing for “teams” that still operate in silos. This episode with interprofessional education expert Dr. Tina Patel Gunaldo, Founder, Collaborate for Health, reveals why just using the term “team-based care” isn’t enough—and how content creators can more accurately reflect the evolving nature of healthcare collaboration. As patient-centered models expand and asynchronous care becomes the norm, CME professionals need a deeper understanding of roles, language, and practice contexts to design impactful education. Discover the critical differences between interprofessional, interdisciplinary, and multidisciplinary practice—and why it matters for CME writing. Learn how to structure education that empowers team collaboration and respects the unique contributions of each discipline. Understand the growing role of patients, technology, and asynchronous communication in shaping interprofessional collaboration today. And if you’re unsure when to use “interprofessional” vs “multidisciplinary”? We’ve got you covered. We created a one-page Quick Reference Guide to help you use team-based language precisely and avoid common traps in CME writing. It’s perfect for writers, educators, and reviewers who want to level up their clarity. Grab the download in the show notes and keep it handy as you create your next piece of content. Tune in now to learn how you can write CME content that reflects real-world collaboration—and elevates both learner experience and patient care outcomes. Connect with Tina Website: https://collaborateforhealth.com LinkedIn

Are you unsure which skills you need to thrive as a CME writer (or need for your writers)—or how to prove your value in an increasingly competitive field? Many medical writers stumble into CME with strong writing chops but little clarity about what the role truly demands. At the same time, education providers struggle to find writers who are not just capable—but competent. This episode bridges that gap. Don Harting and Haifa Kassis join us to unpack the results of their groundbreaking Delphi study on CME writing competencies, revealing what hiring managers really want and how you can grow your career strategically. In this episode, you’ll learn: The four core competencies every CME writer should master today Which deliverables are in high demand—and which are vanishing How this competency model can support onboarding, training, and upskilling. Press play to learn how to align your writing skills with what the CME industry actually needs—so you can stand out, get hired, and grow with confidence. Resources Kassis, H., & Harting, D. (2024). Medical Writing for Continuing Education in the Health Professions: A Competency Model. Journal of CME, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/28338073.2024.2422709 CME Writers’ Toolbox Delphi Panelists WriteCME Pro: Accelerate your freelance CME writing business growth Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to CME Writing Challenges 00:20 Meet the Researchers: Haifa Kassis and Don Harting 01:19 The Competency Model: Key Findings 02:40 Expert Consensus and Methodology 06:16 Surprising Insights and Real-World Challenges 11:15 Practical Applications and Future Directions 24:35 Emerging Competencies and Industry Trends 28:47 Conclusion and Contact Information