Kidney Commute

Episode

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  Pitstop: From Red Flags to Rapid Response: Urgent Decision-Making in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis Care 14.07.2026 30mnt

  ANCA-associated vasculitis is a rare autoimmune disease that can rapidly damage the kidneys, lungs, and other organs. Early recognition and prompt treatment are essential. In this episode of Kidney Commute Pit Stop, host Dr. Osama El Shamy is joined by rheumatologist Dr. Anisha Dua, nephrologist Dr. Duvuru Geetha, and kidney transplant recipient Melissa Rubio. Together they explore common signs and clinical presentations, diagnostic challenges, the role of ANCA testing and kidney biopsy, and why timely treatment initiation is critical to preserving organ function. Melissa shares her inspiring journey from diagnosis at age 17 through dialysis, kidney transplantation, and recovery. Her story highlights the importance of patient education, family support, and multidisciplinary care. Whether you are a member of the nephrology or rheumatology care team, this episode provides practical insights to help recognize ANCA-associated vasculitis earlier, support timely diagnosis, and improve patient outcomes. This episode is supported by Amgen. Please click here, to view more information and resources on ANCA-Associated Vasculitis (AAV). Upon completion of this podcast, please complete the survey at https://nkf.jotform.com/261964216947872 
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  Pitstop: Beyond Binders: Evolving the Hyperphosphatemia Playbook 25.06.2026 37mnt

  Hyperphosphatemia affects a significant proportion of patients receiving dialysis and remains a complex challenge for kidney care teams. In this episode of Kidney Commute Pit Stop, Anna Gaddy welcomes nephrologist Jessica Kendrick, clinical pharmacist Kimberly Holdener, and renal nutrition expert David St-Jules to explore what phosphorus management looks like in 2026.The panel discusses the evolution of the "renal diet," emerging evidence on phosphorus bioavailability, the impact of food additives and processing, and how individualized nutrition counseling can improve patient outcomes. They also review traditional phosphorus binders, challenges with adherence and pill burden, and the emerging role of tenapanor, a first-in-class phosphorus blocker. Listeners will gain practical insights for helping patients navigate phosphorus management while maintaining a balanced, patient-centered approach to nutrition and quality of life.This episode is supported by Ardelyx.Please click here, to view a clinical bulletin update on managing hyperphosphatemia in patients on dialysis.Upon completion of the podcast, please complete this short survey: https://nkf.jotform.com/261544521599868
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  Pitstop: Plant-based Enteral Formulas for People with CKD 16.06.2026 32mnt

  Disclosure: The content and opinions of the podcast are those of the guests; these are not claims or recommendations for Kate Farms products. Plant-based nutrition has emerged as an important component of kidney care, but questions remain about how plant-based enteral formulas can best support people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pit Stop, host Dr. Raphy Rosen is joined by Brandon Kistler, PhD, RD, and Rachel Wontor, MS, RDN, CD, CNSC, to explore the growing role of plant-based enteral nutrition in clinical practice. The discussion examines the key features of plant-based formulas, including standard, renal-specific, peptide, and specialty options, and reviews how these products compare with traditional formulas in meeting nutritional needs. The panel also discusses when renal formulas may or may not be necessary, current evidence related to effectiveness and patient acceptance, insurance coverage considerations, and practical approaches for implementing plant-based enteral nutrition in healthcare settings. Clinicians will gain actionable insights to help support individualized nutrition care for people with CKD. After listening to the podcast, please take a moment to complete the quick survey at https://nkf.jotform.com/261534175734863 
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  Hidden Phosphorus: Understanding Phosphate Additives in Food 29.05.2026 40mnt

  Phosphate additives are commonly used in processed and convenience foods, yet many patients and healthcare professionals remain unaware of how significantly they contribute to phosphorus burden in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Elevated phosphorus levels can negatively impact bone, cardiovascular, and overall kidney health, making phosphorus management an important aspect of kidney care. In this episode of Kidney Commute, an interprofessional panel featuring a nephrologist, dietitian, policy expert, and patient advocate discusses the clinical impact of phosphate additives, the differences between naturally occurring phosphorus and additive-based phosphorus, and the practical challenges patients face when trying to identify hidden phosphorus sources in foods and medications. The discussion also explores socioeconomic barriers, food labeling limitations, and ongoing policy and advocacy efforts aimed at improving phosphorus transparency and patient education. Listeners will gain practical strategies and insights to better support phosphorus management in clinical practice and daily life.
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  Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Optimizing Management of IgAN and IgAV 08.05.2026 21mnt

  IgA nephropathy and IgA vasculitis remain complex and evolving areas in nephrology care. In this episode, experts discuss key insights from the KDIGO guidelines and KDOQI commentary published in AJKD, focusing on updated approaches to risk stratification, disease progression, and treatment decision making. The conversation highlights the role of supportive care, immunosuppressive therapy considerations, and emerging therapeutic options, while addressing variability in clinical practice and patient management challenges. This episode provides practical, evidence based perspectives to help clinicians navigate the nuances of IgAN and IgAV care and apply guideline recommendations in real world settings. Please view the AJKD article here.
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  Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI - Improving Anemia Management in CKD 08.05.2026 39mnt

  Anemia in chronic kidney disease remains common, complex, and rapidly evolving. In this episode, experts discuss key updates from the 2026 KDIGO Clinical Practice Guidelines and AJKD commentary, including a stronger focus on identifying and treating iron deficiency and refining treatment strategies. The conversation explores the clinical impact of anemia on cardiovascular risk and quality of life, reviews evidence supporting proactive IV iron use, and examines emerging therapies such as HIF stabilizers. The panel also addresses real world challenges in managing anemia, particularly in non dialysis CKD populations, where access, adherence, and care coordination play a critical role. This episode provides practical insights to support individualized, evidence based anemia care. Please click here to access the commentary.
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  Pitstop: Congress Cares about Kidneys: Unpacking the recent congressional hearing about kidney health 28.04.2026 34mnt

  Kidney care rarely takes center stage in Congress, but a recent hearing is bringing renewed attention to prevention, innovation, and patient access. In this episode, host Raphy Rosen is joined by Dr. Suzanne Watnick, who testified as a witness at the March 18 Ways and Means Health Subcommittee hearing, along with Dr. Dan Weiner. Together, they unpack key themes across CKD, dialysis, and transplantation, and explore what emerging legislative efforts could mean for patients and providers. Tune in for an inside look at how kidney care is shaping national health policy.
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  Pitstop: Global Guidelines: U.S. Insights from KDOQI: Optimizing ADPKD Evaluation and Treatment 31.03.2026 30mnt

  In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, we explore key insights from the KDIGO Commentary on the 2025 KDOQI Clinical Practice Guideline for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by Dr. Neera Dahl and Dr. Terry Watnick to discuss how the updated recommendations differ from prior guidance and what they mean for real world practice in the United States. The conversation highlights advances in genetic testing, practical considerations for implementing tolvaptan therapy, and emerging therapies on the horizon. Tune in for actionable takeaways to support clinical decision making and improve care for patients with ADPKD.   Access the commentary here: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(26)00003-X/fulltext 
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  Pitstop: NephMadness 2026: Cerebronephrology Region: Exploring the Intersection Between Kidney Disease and Brain Health 19.03.2026 25mnt

  Hosted by Dr. Sam Kant, this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode explores the Cerebronephrology region of NephMadness 2026 and the emerging concept of the brain–kidney axis. Drs. David Drew and Colton Jensen examine how chronic kidney disease and ESKD with dialysis contribute to cognitive impairment—an underrecognized complication affecting a large proportion of patients. From early microvascular injury, albuminuria, and hypertension in CKD to cerebral hypoperfusion, ischemia, and structural brain changes during dialysis, this discussion highlights the bidirectional relationship between kidney and brain health. Join us as we unpack where brain injury begins and what this means for earlier recognition and improved patient care. For more information on the Cerebronephrology Region of NephMadness please go to: https://ajkdblog.org/2026/03/01/nephmadness-2026-cerebronephrology-region/ 
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  Optimizing Oral Health for Kidney Transplant Success 17.03.2026 30mnt

  This podcast explores the critical role of oral health in kidney transplant eligibility and outcomes. Through an interprofessional discussion, learners will examine how oral health impacts infection risk, transplant readiness, and long-term success. Notably, this episode features the valuable perspective of a dentist, highlighting the importance of integrating dental expertise into transplant care. Practical strategies for prevention, care coordination, and addressing access barriers will be highlighted to support patient-centered transplant care.
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  Pitstop: APOL1 and Kidney Disease: From Theory to Practice 05.03.2026 35mnt

  Advances in genetics have transformed how we understand kidney disease, and the discovery of APOL1 has been a major milestone. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, host Dr. Osama El Shamy is joined by Meyeon Park, MD, MAS and Denay Richards, PhD to explore the role of APOL1 genetic variants in kidney disease development and progression. The discussion covers the epidemiology of APOL1, the interplay between genetic risk and environmental factors, and scenarios in which APOL1 genetic testing may be considered. Speakers also address how test results are communicated to patients and families, implications for disease management, emerging research into APOL1 targeted therapies, and the significance of newly introduced ICD 10 codes for APOL1 mediated kidney disease. After listening to the podcast, please complete the survey at https://kidneyforms.tfaforms.net/4728148. This educational episode is supported by Vertex Pharmaceuticals.
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  Pitstop: Legislation and Its Effect on Dialysis Patient Choice 19.02.2026 38mnt

  Legislation has played a defining role in how dialysis care is delivered in the United States, directly influencing access, coverage, and patient choice. In this episode of Kidney Commute: Pitstop, host Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Lauren Drew, JD, and Eugene Lin, MD, MS, FASN for an in depth discussion on the policy decisions that have shaped kidney care. The conversation traces key legislative milestones, including the creation of the ESRD benefit, the Medicare dialysis bundle, Medicare Advantage expansion, and the Advancing American Kidney Health Initiative. Speakers also examine the current legislative landscape, its impact on dialysis patient choice, and opportunities for professional advocacy in kidney care.
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  Pitstop: Is Dialysis Nephrology’s Original Sin? A Dialogue Inspired by a Recent AJKD Publication 23.01.2026 40mnt

  Is dialysis nephrology’s greatest achievement or its original sin? In this Kidney Commute: Pit Stop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy, welcomes Dr. Andrew Cohen, to discuss a provocative question that challenges how the field of nephrology has evolved. Drawing from Dr. Cohen’s recent AJKD publication, the conversation explores key historical milestones, including early innovations, the 1972 Medicare amendment, and the rise of corporatized dialysis care. Together, they examine how these forces have shaped trainee perceptions, workforce recruitment, and the identity of nephrology today. The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on how the field can refocus priorities, embrace innovation, and chart a more balanced path beyond dialysis-centered care. AJKD Article: https://www.ajkd.org/article/S0272-6386(25)00711-5/abstract
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  Adolescence to Adult Care Transition 20.01.2026 31mnt

  Navigating the transition from pediatric to adult kidney transplant care is one of the most pivotal and vulnerable periods for young patients. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, an interdisciplinary panel of nephrology, social work, nursing, pharmacy experts, and a kidney transplant recipient explore the medical, psychological, and social complexities that shape a successful transition. The discussion addresses readiness for independence, medication and insurance changes, adherence challenges, family dynamics, and coordinated handoffs between pediatric and adult teams. Through real-world insights and practical strategies, this episode highlights approaches to support continuity of care, protect graft survival, and empower young adults as they move into adult-centered transplant care. This episode is complemented by additional insights from a psychologist who was unable to join the discussion; related resources are available at this link.
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  Pitstop: Uromodulin 13.12.2025 32mnt

  In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF, is joined by Kaice LaFavers, PhD, and Pranav Garimella, MBBS, MPH, to explore uromodulin. They discuss its role in infection defense, immune modulation, AKI and sepsis, genetic insights, and evolving methods to study its multiple forms. A concise, science driven look at why uromodulin matters in kidney health.
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  Pitstop: Part 2: Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic – Treatment and Management Principles 01.12.2025 31mnt

  Effective management of obesity in patients with CKD requires a holistic, interprofessional approach. In part 2 of this episode, the conversation continues with translating the evolving evidence into practical guidance for nephrology teams. Experts review the importance of a person-centered approach integrating lifestyle interventions, pharmacologic therapies, and surgical options with a focus on safety, efficacy, and kidney-related outcomes. The discussion emphasizes how members of the nephrology care team can collaborate to personalize treatment, address appetite and nutrition concerns, and help patients achieve meaningful weight loss without compromising kidney health. Tune in for actionable insights and strategies to translate emerging science into individualized, kidney-friendly, weight management strategies. Please be sure to visit the National Kidney Foundation's Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic page for additional information and access to an infographic designed to support clinical care for managing obesity in individuals living with CKD: https://www.kidney.org/professionals/tools/obesity-nephrology-clinic Supported by Novo Nordisk
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  Pitstop: Part 1: Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic – Risks, Roles, and Real-World Strategies 01.12.2025 24mnt

  Obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are deeply interconnected as each condition increases the risk and severity of the other. In part 1 of this episode, our interprofessional panel of experts explores the science behind this bidirectional relationship and the epidemiologic data underscoring their connection. Listeners will gain insight into the underlying pathophysiology, including the roles of inflammation, altered kidney hemodynamics, and lipotoxicity. Through practical discussion and dissection of the literature, this episode highlights the importance of recognizing obesity as both a cause and consequence of CKD, and the crucial role nephrology professionals play in interrupting this cycle early. Please be sure to visit the National Kidney Foundation's Obesity in the Nephrology Clinic page for additional information and access to an infographic designed to support clinical care for managing obesity in individuals living with CKD: https://www.kidney.org/professionals/tools/obesity-nephrology-clinic Supported by Novo Nordisk
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  Pitstop: Can a Nephrologist Say "No" to Dialysis? 13.10.2025 37mnt

  When should dialysis be withheld at the end of life—and who makes that decision? Join host Raphy Rosen with experts Drs. Alvin Moss and Christine Corbett as they explore the ethical, clinical, and emotional challenges the nephrology team face when considering “no” to dialysis. Learn how shared decision-making, time-limited trials, and compassionate communication can help align care with patient values and improve end-of-life outcomes.   Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FASN, FNKF Panelists: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF and Alvin H. Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM
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  Pitstop: Applying eGFR Trends to Clinical Practice when Treating Patients with IgAN 02.10.2025 31mnt

  In this episode, we explore the evolving role of surrogate endpoints in the management of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), with a particular focus on the significance of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Of the completed Phase 3 trials in IgAN, one used time-weighted average eGFR, an area under the curve-based measure that reflects the average change in eGFR from baseline over a specified period, in this case, over the full 2-year study period. The other trial used total eGFR slope to describe the overall rate of change over 2 years. But what do these endpoints mean outside the setting of a clinical trial? Expert insights shed light on how proteinuria and eGFR trends can inform prognosis and guide treatment decisions in clinical practice over the long term. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to interpret eGFR changes over time and apply this knowledge to optimize patient care. Designed for nephrology professionals, this episode offers practical, evidence-based perspectives on integrating these surrogate endpoints into the care of patients with IgAN. Supported by Calliditas Therapeutics Upon completion of the podcast, please take a moment to complete a brief survey: https://kidneyforms.tfaforms.net/4728109
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  Benefits of Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) 22.09.2025 43mnt

  Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 35 million U.S. adults, yet only a small percentage see a dietitian before starting dialysis. In this episode of Kidney Commute, experts and a patient share how Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) can slow CKD progression, improve quality of life, and support patients in making sustainable dietary changes. Listeners will also gain practical insights on insurance coverage, referral pathways, and strategies to expand access to renal nutrition care.