CPhT Connect The Podcast with Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv

Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv

Welcome to CPhT Connect… the podcast for pharmacy technicians! Join us for the only weekly podcast specifically for certified pharmacy technicians, covering the latest pharmacy news and trends… deliver interviews with industry leaders and share your stories from the frontlines. Hosted by Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv.

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 119: RxInfluencers- Maurice Call, PharmD, "Retailwithreece"

    In this episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, sits down with Maurice Call, PharmD, a Nashville-based pharmacist and the digital creator behind the popular social media brand @Retailwithreece. As part of our Rx Influencers series—and marking him as only our second featured influencer on this series—we dive deep into his professional journey and his transition into becoming a powerful voice for pharmacy advocacy online. Maurice opens up about his unique entry into the profession, a determination sparked all the way back in the seventh grade. After graduating from the UT College of Pharmacy, his career took an unexpected turn. Rather than securing a traditional residency or landing his dream job right away, he found himself navigating the intense world of corporate retail. Over the last few years, Maurice has pulled from an incredibly diverse playbook—working across five different pharmacist positions spanning major corporate retail chains, closed-door pharmacies, and his current role in a hospital outpatient pharmacy setting. We explore how these varied environments shaped his broad understanding of standard pharmacy practices and inspired him to create content that serves as a guide for others charting their own paths. In this episode, we discuss: The Rx Influencer Journey: How a passion for watching YouTube content transformed into creating a platform to share transparent, real-world pharmacy advice. Navigating the Unexpected: Maurice's journey from a challenging start in corporate retail to finding fulfillment in a hospital outpatient setting. The Power of Perspective: How working across five different pharmacy models gave him a bird's-eye view of what is typical, what is standard, and what needs to change in the industry. The Lifeline of the Team: Why building mutual respect and a strong partnership with pharmacy technicians is the true secret to a successful and enjoyable career. A Pharmacy Power Couple: A fun look at what happens when two pharmacists tie the knot and share the same daily passion for healthcare. About Our Guest: Maurice Call, PharmD, is an outpatient hospital pharmacist based out of Nashville, Tennessee. A graduate of the UT College of Pharmacy, Maurice brings seven years of community pharmacy experience to his practice, including four and a half years as a licensed pharmacist. Through his social media brand, @Retailwithreece, he leverages his extensive background across multiple corporate and independent pharmacy models to provide guidance, mentorship, and a relatable voice for fellow pharmacy professionals navigating non-traditional career trajectories. Listen now to hear Maurice's perspective on overcoming career hurdles, advocating for the profession, and the vital importance of supporting your pharmacy team. For links, show notes, and resources from today's episode, visit CPhTConnect.com. Be sure to check out Maurice on social media at @Retailwithreece.

    39 min
  2. May 27

    Episode 118: Student Summit AMA - Part 2

    This episode of CPhT Connect features Part 2 of a special live "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) session recorded during the 2026 Pharmacy Technician Student Summit. Our hosts Mike Johnston and Ashleigh Smith continue the conversation with our expert panel of speakers. Following the success of Part 1, we dive into practical, high-impact strategies to help students navigate their certification preparation and professional growth. This session focuses on turning complex study requirements into manageable, effective habits and understanding the nuances of the pharmacy field. In this episode, we discuss: Optimized Study Patterns: Effective techniques for pairing dense subjects (like the Top 200 drugs) with lighter topics to prevent burnout and maximize retention. Mastering Pharmacy Math: How to treat formulas as "tools in a toolbox," and the importance of applying math theory to real-world pharmacy practice to make it "come to life." Navigating Pharmacy Law: Shifting the focus from tedious date memorization to understanding the "story" and purpose behind the laws, making them easier to recall for exam purposes. The "Hidden" Requirements: Addressing what students often overlook when preparing for a career as a pharmacy technician—specifically the critical development of soft skills and professional conduct. Personal Growth: How to use your training period as an opportunity to reevaluate your professional perspective and build the career you've always envisioned. About Our Guests: Lorinda Lohner, MBA, BS Pharm, CPhT: A regular NPTA presenter based in Las Vegas and a published author specializing in pharmacy calculations and the Top 200 drugs. Sharon Garrett, CPhT: A dedicated educator and published author from Louisiana with extensive experience in the pharmacy technician field. Cassi Prosper, CPhT: A recurring summit presenter from California, focused on helping students streamline their learning processes. Jamie McGuire, CPhT: A summit presenter joining the discussion from West Virginia to share professional insights with the next generation of technicians. Registration Information: While the live summit has concluded, all resources and training materials remain available on-demand throughout the year. Students can register for these free tools at cpht.org/student . Link to Book Resources: Pharmacy Technician Exam Review: https://a.co/d/0ikwFSFq Top 200 Drugs Memorizing Made Ridiculously Easy (ebook): https://amzn.to/3TbR7EH Pharmacy Calculations Made Ridiculously Easy (paperback): https://amzn.to/45LNnBd Top 200 Drugs Simplified: Pharmacology Coloring Book & Study Guide: https://a.co/d/025SzbVr Stay Connected: Have questions or ideas for the show? Email us at podcast@cpht.org. This is Part 2 of the Student Summit AMA. If you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and listen to the previous episode for our deep dive into the four key knowledge domains and certification exam blueprints.

    24 min
  3. May 13

    Episode 117: Student Summit AMA - Part 1

    This episode of CPhT Connect features a special live "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) session recorded during the 2026 Pharmacy Technician Student Summit. Host Mike Johnston and co-host Ashleigh Smith are joined by an expert panel of Student Summit speakers to provide direct guidance for students transitioning from the classroom to their first professional roles. As the Student Summit celebrates its fifth year as a free, virtual resource for the technician community, this session dives deep into the most pressing questions submitted by students nationwide.  In this episode, we discuss: Essential Study Topics: Identifying the four key knowledge domains students must master for national certification. Prioritizing the "Big Three": Why pharmacology and the Top 200 drugs make up over 60% of the exam blueprint, followed by the critical importance of pharmacy math and law. Smarter Study Strategies: Moving away from overwhelming alphabetical memorization toward a system based on drug roots, classes, and patterns. Patient Safety & Math: Understanding how pharmacy calculations and drug interactions directly impact patient safety and exam performance. Expert Resources: Highlighting published guides and training materials available to help students conquer complex subjects like med math. About Our Guests: Lorinda Lohner, MBA, BS Pharm, CPhT: A regular NPTA presenter based in Las Vegas and a published author specializing in pharmacy calculations and the Top 200 drugs. Sharon Garrett, CPhT: A dedicated educator and published author from Louisiana with extensive experience in the pharmacy technician field. Cassi Prosper, CPhT: A recurring summit presenter from California focused on helping students streamline their learning processes. Jamie McGuire, CPhT: A summit presenter joining the discussion from West Virginia to share professional insights with the next generation of technicians. Registration Information: While the live summit has concluded, all resources and training materials remain available on demand throughout the year. Students can register for these free tools at cpht.org/student. Link to Book Resources: Pharmacy Technician Exam Review: https://a.co/d/0ikwFSFq Top 200 Drugs Memorizing Made Ridiculously Easy (ebook): https://amzn.to/3TbR7EH Pharmacy Calculations Made Ridiculously Easy (paperback): https://amzn.to/45LNnBd Top 200 Drugs Simplified: Pharmacology Coloring Book & Study Guide: https://a.co/d/025SzbVr This is Part 1 of the Student Summit AMA. The next episode will be Part 2. Visit CPhTConnect.com

    28 min
  4. Apr 28

    Episode 116: Career Path with Jessica Hamlett, CPhT

    In this episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, sits down with Jessica Hamlett, CPhT, a seasoned Pharmacy Buyer and the creator behind the brand JessPharmLife, to explore her incredible 22-year journey through nearly every corner of the pharmacy world. Jessica shares her wealth of experience moving from the fast-paced retail environment to the precision-heavy worlds of IV room operations and chemotherapy. We dive into her unique path as a travel technician and educator, discussing how her diverse background led her to her current focus: mastering the pharmacy supply chain to ensure every patient has reliable access to the medications they need. In this episode, we discuss: The Buyer's Perspective: Navigating the complexities of supply chain management and the critical role of efficiency and accuracy in hospital operations. A Journey Across the Bench: Lessons learned from 22 years of experience in retail, chemotherapy, and IV room settings. The Travel Tech Life: What it is really like to take on travel assignments and how to adapt quickly to new pharmacy environments. JessPharmLife: The mission behind her YouTube channel and her dedication to sharing knowledge and supporting the pharmacy technician community. Teaching the Next Generation: Why education and mentorship are vital for advancing pharmacy practice and improving patient outcomes. About Our Guest: Jessica Hamlett, CPhT, is a Pharmacy Buyer with 22 years of experience across multiple areas of pharmacy, including retail, IV room operations, chemotherapy, teaching, and travel assignments. Known to many in the community through her brand JessPharmLife, Jessica brings a well-rounded perspective to supply chain management. She is dedicated to improving patient care through education, community engagement, and ensuring excellence in medication access. Listen now to hear Jessica's perspective on the evolving role of the technician and the importance of finding your niche in the pharmacy world. For links, show notes, and resources from today's episode, visit CPhTConnect.com. Be sure to check out Jessica on YouTube at @jesspharmlife.

    56 min
  5. Apr 14

    Episode 115: A Pharmacist's POV with Julia Kravtsova, PharmD

    In this episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, sits down  with Julia Kravtsova, PharmD, the Pharmacy Director at QuickRx Specialty Pharmacy, to explore her nearly two-decade journey in the field and her mission to dismantle the barriers to medication access.  Julia shares her unique "origin story"—sparked not by a textbook, but by the kindness of a local pharmacist she witnessed as a child—and discusses how that early impression shaped her own clinical philosophy. We dive into her 11-year foundation at Walgreens, where she managed some of the busiest locations in the country, and why she believes pharmacy technicians are the true front line and the ultimate deciders of a patient's experience. In this episode, we discuss: The Retail Reality: Julia's experience navigating the intense world of NYC retail and the lessons learned from "floating" across Times Square, Brooklyn, and Staten Island.   The Pivot to Specialty: Why Julia moved from high-volume community pharmacy to a specialized role focused on medication access and insurance navigation.   The Power of the Technician: A pharmacist's perspective on why technicians are essential leaders and how they can immediately impact patient care.   Advocacy Beyond the Counter: Julia's dedication to the MS community and her work with the MS Focus: Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.   Navigating Industry Trends: A look at the evolving landscape of pharmacy, from workplace safety to the future of specialty care. About Our Guest: Julia Kravtsova earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the Arnold & Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy at Long Island University. As the Pharmacy Director at QuickRx, she focuses on ensuring patients can afford and access life-changing treatments.  Outside the pharmacy, she is a passionate advocate for those living with multiple sclerosis, supporting events like the Focus In Fashion Gala and Roll Over MS. Listen now to hear Julia's perspective on why the heart of pharmacy is—and always will be—the human connection. For links, show notes, and resources from today's episode, visit CPhTConnect.com.

    46 min
  6. Mar 19

    Episode 114: Exploring Career Paths with Bethea Schnuit, CPhT

    In this episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, sits down with Bethea Schnuit, CPhT, to explore the many directions a pharmacy technician career can take—and how real-world experience can open doors you may not even realize exist. Since becoming certified in 2016, Bethea has built a diverse career across community pharmacy, long-term care, and hospital settings, developing a strong foundation in patient care and operational excellence. Her journey expanded into a more impactful role as a Senior Pharmacy Care Coordinator with Genoa Healthcare, where she partnered with mental health clinics across Western North Carolina to support patient assistance programs and improve access to care for vulnerable populations. Now working with EnlivenHealth, Bethea has transitioned into the healthcare technology space, training pharmacy teams on clinical solutions software and helping bridge the gap between frontline pharmacy experience and innovative patient care solutions. In this conversation, Mike and Bethea discuss what it takes to grow beyond traditional roles, how to recognize your own value as a technician, and why you don't need a four-year degree to pursue new opportunities in pharmacy and beyond. Listeners will hear about: Bethea's journey through multiple pharmacy practice settings How hands-on experience can lead to non-traditional career opportunities Supporting patient access through mental health partnerships and care coordination Transitioning from frontline pharmacy work into a corporate healthcare role Overcoming self-doubt and applying for roles outside your comfort zone Why pharmacy technicians should feel confident pursuing career growth Whether you're just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, this episode will challenge you to think beyond traditional paths and recognize the value of your experience. Key Takeaway: "Your pharmacy technician experience can take you further than you think—don't be afraid to explore what's possible." For more pharmacy technician resources and episodes, visit cphtconnect.com.

    35 min
  7. Mar 3

    Episode 113: Pharmacy 50 Awards with Ellaine Sisomphou-Ramos

    In this inspiring episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, sits down with Ellaine Sisomphou-Ramos, a nationally certified pharmacy technician whose career is a masterclass in professional growth and self-advocacy. Originally trained as a nurse in the Philippines, "Ella" shares her remarkable journey of transitioning to the U.S. pharmacy landscape, moving from high-volume retail to a specialized role in outpatient infusion and specialty pharmacy. Her dedication to clinical excellence recently earned her a nomination as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy, where she ranked in the Top 45—a powerful testament to the impact a technician can have on the entire profession. Listeners will hear about: The Global Transition: Ella's journey from nursing in the Philippines and working as a rehab aid in Hawaii to finding a new level of "fulfillment" in the U.S. pharmacy field. The Power of Negotiation: A candid look at how Ella successfully negotiated a higher starting salary at a major retail chain by confidently articulating her clinical value. Moving into Specialty Pharmacy: The shift from the "craziness" of retail during the pandemic to the technical and clinical demands of outpatient infusion therapy. The "Lifelong Student" Mindset: Why staying ahead of medical literature and constantly studying is the best way to ensure you never feel "stuck" in your career. Stepping Into the Spotlight: The story behind her influential leader nomination and why technicians must learn to be their own biggest advocates. Whether you are navigating a career change or looking to level up your clinical expertise, Ella's story provides a roadmap for turning technical skills into professional influence. This episode also features an exciting announcement regarding the launch of the NPTA Pharmacy Technician I.M.P.A.C.T. Awards, a new international program designed to spotlight the measurable contributions of technicians worldwide. Key Takeaway: "Study, study, study. Don't feel stuck. Find the right people to ask questions and always be your own advocate." Resources from this episode: Connect with Ellaine Sisomphou-Ramos: LinkedIn Profile Nominate for the I.M.P.A.C.T. Awards: cpht.org/awards Learn more about NPTA: cpht.org

    34 min
  8. Feb 17

    Episode 112: Leadership/Career Advancement With Lorraine K. Lee

    In this episode of CPhT Connect, host Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv, breaks new ground by welcoming the show's first-ever non-pharmacy guest. Joining us is Lorraine K. Lee, a best-selling author, LinkedIn Top Voice, and keynote speaker who has empowered leaders at global organizations like Zoom, Amazon, and McKinsey & Company. As the industry faces rapid changes—from restructuring to new technology—Lorraine shares her "Unforgettable Presence" framework to help pharmacy professionals master the art of influence and ensure their value is never overlooked. Listeners will hear about: Building Your Own Door: How to create opportunities and gain leadership skills through unofficial roles, even when faced with professional "red tape." Filling the Gaps: Strategies for identifying pain points within your organization and proposing new responsibilities that demonstrate your strategic value. Leadership Beyond the Pharmacy: Finding creative ways to develop mentorship and leadership talents through volunteer organizations and side projects. The Power of Intentionality: Why professional presence is built in "small moments" and how being intentional can catapult your career trajectory. Standing Out in Uncertain Times: How to clearly communicate your unique value to remain top-of-mind for promotions and new opportunities during industry shifts. A New Perspective: Insights from our first non-pharmaceutical guest on why these universal leadership skills are critical for the modern pharmacy technician. Whether you are an aspiring manager or a seasoned technician, this episode provides a masterclass in professional visibility. Lorraine's expertise offers a practical roadmap for anyone ready to move beyond their technical role and lead with a presence that opens doors and creates lasting impact. Key Takeaway: "Be intentional about your presence, remember that it is about the small moments, and truly understand how to communicate your value to stand out." Resources from this episode: Read Unforgettable Presence: unforgettablepresencebook.com Connect with Lorraine: linkedin.com/in/lorraineklee Weekly bite-sized career tips: lorraineklee.com/subscribe LinkedIn Learning courses: lorraineklee.com/linkedinlearning Collaborate with Lorraine: contact@lorraineklee.com Visit CPHTConnect.com for more resources and to join the conversation.

    46 min
4.6
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Welcome to CPhT Connect… the podcast for pharmacy technicians! Join us for the only weekly podcast specifically for certified pharmacy technicians, covering the latest pharmacy news and trends… deliver interviews with industry leaders and share your stories from the frontlines. Hosted by Mike Johnston, CPhT-Adv.

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