The UMB Pulse Podcast

University of Maryland, Baltimore
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The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) is working to strengthen social impact and galvanize innovation. This season of “The UMB Pulse” podcast is featuring stories about how UMB is taking creative action to overcome barriers and solve social problems. “The UMB Pulse” is produced by the UMB Office of Communications and Public Affairs. Co-hosted by Charles Schelle, lead social media specialist and Dana Rampolla, director of integrated marketing.

  1. Jun 5

    You Can’t Spoil a Baby: The Science of Early Attachment

    Send us Fan Mail On this month’s “The UMB Pulse” podcast, University of Maryland School of Social Work researcher Lisa Berlin, PhD, MS, discusses how early infant-caregiver relationships shape children’s emotional, behavioral, and physical health development. Berlin, the Alison L. Richmond Professor of Children and Families and an MPower Professor, is an expert in attachment security who explains why responsive caregiving helps infants build trust, regulate stress, and develop healthier long-term expectations about relationships and support. Berlin also discusses Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC), a 10-session parent coaching program designed to strengthen supportive caregiving behaviors. Her current collaborative study with 245 low-income Latina mothers and infants in East Baltimore examines how parenting behaviors, sleep, feeding, stress regulation, and immune system functioning may influence lifelong health outcomes. Researchers are also exploring how programs like ABC could eventually expand through systems such as Head Start and Maryland Judy Centers to support more families across the state. Learn more about Berlin's research at https://www.umaryland.edu/research/breakthroughs/strong-start/ Listen to “The UMB Pulse” on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, or wherever you like to listen. “The UMB Pulse” is now also on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu. 00:00 You Can’t Spoil a Baby: The Science of Early Attachment 00:30 Meet Dr Lisa Berlin 02:18 What Secure Attachment Means 05:20 ABC Program Explained 08:05 Study Community And Measures 13:28 Pick Up The Crying Baby 14:45 Brain Expectations And Plasticity 17:44 Stress Sleep And Immune Health 20:49 Key Takeaways For Caregivers 22:22 Research Timeline And Team 24:21 Scaling ABC And Prevention 26:56 Hopeful Closing And Resources Listen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.

    28 min

  2. May 1

    Hip Fracture Recovery Beyond the Hospital: The ENRICH Program and Mobility in Baltimore

    Send us Fan Mail On this month’s "The UMB Pulse Podcast," University of Maryland School of Medicine associate professor Jason R. Falvey, DPT, PhD, director of the Enhancing Rehabilitation to Improve Community Health (ENRICH) lab and inaugural director of the UMSOM Center for Disability Justice, discusses how hip fracture recovery depends on more than surgery and clinic-based therapy.  Falvey explains how neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage, transportation, housing, and infrastructure affect older adults’ ability to age in place and avoid social isolation, and why current Medicare rules limit real-world mobility training. Funded by the National Institute on Aging, Falvey’s work to address these challenges includes partnerships such as GoGoGrandparent and plans for pilot testing and larger trials. Learn more about the Center for Disability Justice: https://pt.umaryland.edu/research/center-for-disability-justice/ Learn more about the ENRICH Program: https://www.umaryland.edu/research/breakthroughs/how-does-where-you-live-affect-recovery-after-a-hip-fracture/ Listen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.

    25 min

  3. Apr 3

    What If Pain Could Speak: Recognizing and Alleviating Hidden Pain in Dementia

    Send us Fan Mail What if the “behavior problems” we see in people living with dementia are actually signs of pain? Host Dana Rampolla speaks with Barbara Resnick, PhD, RN, CRNP, FAAN, FAANP, Distinguished University Professor and associate dean of research at the University of Maryland School of Nursing who is an expert in aging and long-term care, about how pain often goes unrecognized in people with dementia. Because they may struggle to communicate discomfort, pain can show up as agitation, withdrawal, resistance to care, or sudden changes in appetite and engagement. These behaviors are sometimes misunderstood and treated with sedating medications instead of addressing the root cause. Resnick explains what caregivers and clinicians should watch for, from facial expressions and lashing out to subtle shifts in participation and mood.  Health care professionals can learn more about pain management in long-term care settings in this Clinical Practice Guide co-authored by Resnick: https://www.jamda.com/article/S1525-8610(21)00911-7/fulltext Chapters 00:00 Pain Without Words 00:28 Meet Dr. Resnick 02:36 Why Pain Gets Missed 06:15 The Vicious Cycle 07:28 Signs to Watch For 08:55 Find the Root Cause 10:40 Guidelines in Nursing Homes 11:37 Non-Drug Pain Relief 15:36 Questions for Care Teams 17:30 Key Takeaways 19:06 Why She Does This Work 20:55 NIH Study in Practice 22:56 Closing Credits Listen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.

    23 min
  4. From 'Food Noise' to Stimulant Cravings: A New GLP-1 Trial at UMB

    Feb 6

    From 'Food Noise' to Stimulant Cravings: A New GLP-1 Trial at UMB

    Send us Fan Mail University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) associate professor Sarah M. Kattakuzhy, MD, joins “The UMB Pulse” this month to talk about her research exploring whether semaglutide (a GLP-1 medication widely used for diabetes and weight management) could help reduce cravings and improve outcomes for people with stimulant use disorder. Kattakuzhy, who is also the co-director of the Kahlert Institute for Addiction Medicine at UMSOM, describes the design of the STAC Study, which is evaluating the safety and tolerability of semaglutide in people with cocaine use disorder, including participants with and without HIV, while also tracking secondary outcomes such as changes in drug use and cravings. She also discusses why stimulant use disorders, including cocaine and methamphetamine use disorder, have been especially challenging to treat, and how her work through the University of Maryland, Baltimore community-based research partnerships aims to expand treatment options and reduce stigma around substance use disorders. To learn more about this trial or for referrals, contact Dr. Kattakuzhy at skattakuzhy@ihv.umaryland.edu. 00:00 Introduction to Addiction and New Research 00:40 Meet Dr. Sarah Kattakuzhy 01:45 A Day in the Life of Dr. Kattakuzhy 03:57 The Journey to Addiction Research 07:40 Exploring Semaglutides for Addiction Treatment 12:34 Details of the Clinical Trial 20:29 Challenges and Hopes in Addiction Treatment 24:31 Collaborations and Future Directions 27:39 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 32:13 Post-Interview Insights Listen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.

    36 min
  5. Rewiring Relief: How Exercise Heals the Body and Mind After Cancer

    11/07/2025

    Rewiring Relief: How Exercise Heals the Body and Mind After Cancer

    Send us Fan Mail Could exercise be just what the doctor ordered for recovery during chemotherapy? In this episode of “The UMB Pulse,” explore this novel approach to cancer recovery with Ian Kleckner, PhD, MPH, associate professor at the University of Maryland School of Nursing and director of the SYNAPSE Center. Kleckner shares how exercise can alleviate symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy and improve the quality of life for cancer survivors. Through his research, Kleckner investigates how movement can reduce inflammation, enhance brain and body coordination, and empower patients to reclaim their lives.  Chapter Markers  00:00 – Introduction  00:00:17 – Cancer Treatment & Neuropathy  00:01:37 – Guest Introduction: Dr. Ian Kleckner  00:05:06 – Understanding Neuropathy  00:09:38 – Research Findings: Brain & Exercise  00:13:33 – Exercise Intervention & Clinical Trials  00:19:08 – Practical Advice & Takeaways  00:23:31 – Conclusion & Credits Listen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.

    25 min
  6. Can AI Help Your Dentist Detect Oral Cancer and Cavities?

    10/03/2025

    Can AI Help Your Dentist Detect Oral Cancer and Cavities?

    Send us Fan Mail Can your dentist use artificial intelligence (AI) to spot health problems sooner? Imagine an extra set of eyes that never gets tired — that’s what AI is bringing to dentistry.  In this episode, Ahmed Sultan, BDS, PhD, director of the Division of Artificial Intelligence Research at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, shares how new AI tools are helping dentists catch issues like cavities and oral cancer earlier. He also talks about why it matters to use diverse data, the ethical questions behind AI in health care, and how these advances could especially benefit people in rural and low-income communities. Tune in to discover how AI is shaping the future of dental visits — and maybe even protecting more than just your smile. Learn more about AI research at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry at https://www.dental.umaryland.edu/ai/ Listen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.

    27 min
  7. The Globe Less Traveled: A Journey with Robert E Morris, DDS ’69, MPH, FICD

    09/05/2025

    The Globe Less Traveled: A Journey with Robert E Morris, DDS ’69, MPH, FICD

    Send us Fan Mail University of Maryland School of Dentistry alumnus Robert E. Morris, DDS ’69, MPH, FICD, shares his extraordinary life story that spans continents, including his experiences treating villagers in Vietnam, building public health systems in Kuwait, and training oral health leaders in the Caribbean. The recipient of a University of Maryland, Baltimore honorary Doctor of Public Service degree recounts his harrowing survival during the invasion of Kuwait, detailed in his book “120 Days in Deep Hiding: Outwitting the Iraqis in Occupied Kuwait.” He also discusses his philanthropic efforts with the Mai Tam House of Hope in Vietnam, which serves mothers and children affected by HIV/AIDS, and reflects on the Jesuit values that have guided his career.  Morris also wrote an autobiography, "The Life of My Choice: Tales of a Traveling Man." 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Robert E. Morris 02:27 Early Life and Education 05:39 Career Beginnings and Vietnam Experience 08:39 Global Health Leadership and Public Health 14:49 The Kuwait Invasion and Survival 26:59 Saddam Hussein's Announcement and Hostage Situation 27:30 Near-Plane Crash and Journey to Safety 28:52 Movie Offer and General Schwartzkoff's Invasion 29:17 Reunion at Andrews Air Force Base 31:33 Founding the Mai Tam House in Vietnam 34:50 Impact and Success of the Orphanage 41:29 Encouraging Future Generations in Dentistry 45:36 Lifelong Learning and Irish Studies 48:29 Publishing Books and Final Thoughts Listen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.

    51 min
  8. From Lost to Found: The Discovery of John Davidge's Portrait

    08/01/2025

    From Lost to Found: The Discovery of John Davidge's Portrait

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, “The UMB Pulse” hears the story of how a rare portrait of University of Maryland School of Medicine founder John Davidge was hiding in a shuttered Baltimore restaurant and discusses its significance to the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB).  Hosts Dana Rampolla and Charles Schelle, MS, talk with Larry Pitrof, executive director of the Medical Alumni Association (MAA) at UMB, and Meg Fairfax Fielding, director of the history of Maryland medicine at the Maryland State Medical Society, about the astonishing recovery of a long-lost portrait of UMB’s founding father, John Beale Davidge.  Learn how this 200-year-old painting was found during an estate auction at a former Baltimore restaurant and listen to the stories behind the significance of Davidge and historical treasures at UMB. Pitrof also shares the efforts to preserve UMB’s rich medical heritage and the current restoration updates on the iconic Davidge Hall.  Davidge Hall is open to UMB students, faculty, and staff from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Visitors who wish to visit and see the portrait and other artifacts in Davidge Hall should contact MAA in advance at 410-706-7454 or maa@medalumni.umaryland.edu. 00:00 Discovering a Hidden Treasure: The Lost Portrait of John Beale Davidge 02:38 Meet the Experts: Larry Pitrof and Meg Fairfax Fielding 03:50 The Significance of John Beale Davidge to UMB 06:19 The Incredible Discovery at Bertha's Mussels 08:12 Authenticating and Preserving the Portrait 17:48 The Historical Importance of Davidge Hall 21:06 Restoration Efforts and Future Plans for Davidge Hall 26:52 The Value of Historical Artifacts and Collaboration 42:17 Public Display and Access to the Portrait 43:55 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements  Listen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube. Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at umbpulse@umaryland.edu.

    45 min
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About

The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) is working to strengthen social impact and galvanize innovation. This season of “The UMB Pulse” podcast is featuring stories about how UMB is taking creative action to overcome barriers and solve social problems. “The UMB Pulse” is produced by the UMB Office of Communications and Public Affairs. Co-hosted by Charles Schelle, lead social media specialist and Dana Rampolla, director of integrated marketing.

Information

  • Creator
    University of Maryland, Baltimore
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 University of Maryland, Baltimore
  • Show Website
    The UMB Pulse Podcast

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