Kidney Commute Podcast

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 this podcast, please complete the survey at https://nkf.jotform.com/261544521599868. 

Host: Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests:

Jessica Kendrick, MD, MPH; Kimberly Holdener, PharmD, BCPS, BCTXP; David St-Jules, PhD, RD 

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.

Please click here, to view the clinical bulletin on Plant-Based Enteral Formulas for People with Kidney Disease.

Upon completion of this podcast, please complete the survey at https://nkf.jotform.com/261534175734863. 

This educational episode is supported by Kate Farms. 

Host: Raphy Rosen, MD

Guests:

Brandon Kistler, PhD, RD; Rachel Wontor, MS, RDN, CD, CNSC

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.

Host: Kelly Beers, DO, MS

Guests: Jaime Uribarri, MD; Joyce Vergili, EdD, RDN, CSR, CDCES, FAND; Pesh Patel, and Cameron Smith, MS

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until May 29, 2028

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.

Host: Sam Kant, MD, MRCPI, FASN, FNKF, FACP

Guest:

Timothy Yau, MD

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.

Host: Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests:

Jay Wish, MD and Diana Jalal, MD

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.

Host: Raphy Rosen, MD

Guests:

Suzanne Watnick, MD, FASN and Dan Weiner, MD, MS

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 

Host: Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests:

Terry Watnick, MD; Neera Dahl, MD, PhD

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/ 

Host: Sam Kant, MD

Guests:

David Drew, MD, MS; Colton Jensen, MD

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.

Host: Dorothy Muench, MHA, LCSW, NSW-C, FNKF, CCTSW

Guests: Eric Sung, DDS; Anju Kumar, MD; Andrea lewis, LMSW; Karen Greathouse, RD, FNKF, CCTD; and Bruce Tippets, Patient

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until March 17, 2028

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.

Upon completion of this podcast, please complete the survey at https://kidneyforms.tfaforms.net/4728148. 

This educational episode is supported by Vertex Pharmaceuticals. 

Host: Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests:

Meyeon Park, MD, MAS and Denay Richards, PhD, Patient

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.

Host: Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests: Lauren Drew, JD and Eugene Lin, MD, MS, FNKF

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 

Host: Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests: Andrew Cohen, MD

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.

Host: Becky Ness, PA, MPAS, FNKF

Guests: Taryn Shappell, LCSW; Elaine Ku, MD, MAS; Kathleen Mallett, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, MSN, APRN. FNP-C, CNN-NP, FNKF; Chrissy Tabulov, PharmD, BCPPS; Payton Johnson, CCHT, Patient

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until January 20, 2028

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.

Host: Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests: Kaice LaFavers, PhD, and Pranav Garimella, MBBS, MPH

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

Host: Sam Kant, MD

Guests: Katie Patel, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES, BC-ADM; Linda-Marie Lavenburg, DO, MS; and Anne Dalin, Patient Advocate

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

Host: Sam Kant, MD

Guests: Katie Patel, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES, BC-ADM; Linda-Marie Lavenburg, DO, MS; and Anne Dalin, Patient Advocate

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

Guests: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF and Alvin H. Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM

1. Prognostic Calculator developed by Steve Fadem, MD from the 6-month mortality study
2. Development of a risk stratification algorithm to improve patient-centered care and decision making for incident elderly patients with end-stage renal disease
3. Predicting six-month mortality for patients who are on maintenance hemodialysis
4. Shared Decision-Making in the Appropriate Initiation of and Withdrawal from Dialysis

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.

Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests: Pietro A. A. Canetta, MD, FASN and Ashte Collins, MD, FASN

Supported by Calliditas Therapeutics

Upon completion of the podcast, please take a moment to complete this brief survey: https://kidneyforms.tfaforms.net/4728109

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.

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until September 22, 2027

In this Kidney Commute: Pitstop episode, host Dr. Osama El Shamy speaks with Drs. Susie Hu and Anthony Chang about the first AJKD Core Curriculum update since 2016 on localized renal masses. They unpack risk factors, incidental findings, treatment strategies, and the vital role nephrologists play—alongside urology and pathology—in preserving kidney function and improving patient care. You can access the full article in American Journal of Kidney Diseases (AJKD) HERE.

Host: Osama El Shamy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests: Susie Hu, MD and Anthony Chang, MD

Join host Dr. Sam Kant and experts Dr. Craig Gordon and Dr. Pranav Garimella as they break down the latest AJKD Core Curriculum on Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD). This episode explores genetics, imaging, prognostic tools, lifestyle strategies, and management, offering practical, evidence-based insights to guide kidney care professionals. You can access the full article in American Journal of Kidney Diseases (AJKD) HERE.

Host: Sam Kant, MD

Guests: Craig Gordon, MD, MS and Pranav Garimella, MBBS, MPH, FASN

In this Kidney Commute episode, host Dr. Nupur Gupta is joined by Dr. Vandana Dua Niyyar, Cheryl Cress, RN, CNN, and home dialysis patient Jane DeMeis with her care partner Joe. They explore challenges and solutions in vascular access for home hemodialysis, including access types, self-cannulation, patient education, and real-world impacts. This interprofessional discussion blends clinical expertise and lived experience to improve patient outcomes.

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until August 12, 2027

This episode delves into the updated AJKD Core Curriculum on Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapies (CKRT). Host Anna Gaddy is joined by authors J. Pedro Teixeira, Swapnil Hiremath and Edward Clark, as they explore crucial topics like the practical advantages and disadvantages of CRRT, mechanisms of hemodynamic instability with KRT, and strategies for de-escalation. This episode provides valuable insights into the evolving world of kidney care and addresses key considerations for nephrology professionals. You can access the full article in American Journal of Kidney Diseases (AJKD) HERE.

Host: Anna Gaddy, MD, FASN, FNKF

Guests: J. Pedtro Teixeira, MD; Edward Clark, MD MSc; Swapnil Hiremath, MD, MPH

In this episode of the Kidney Commute: Pitstop* series, host, Raphy Rosen is joined by Christine Corbett and Alvin Moss to discuss active medical care without dialysis.

Host: Raphy Rosen, MD, FNKF

Guests: Christine Corbett, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNN-NP, ACHPN, FNKF & Alvin Moss, MD, FACP, FAAHPM

Discover expert insights on kidney stone prevention and management in this podcast episode featuring a physician, dietitian, pharmacist, and patient. Learn about key kidney stone risk factors and explore how dietary adjustments can reduce stone recurrence. Experts discuss fluid intake strategies, medication considerations, surgical indications, and even unconventional questions about roller coasters’ impact on stone passage. Tune in for actionable advice, myth-busting discussions, and interprofessional perspectives.

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until May 21, 2027

Palliative care, or treatment focused on symptom management and quality of life, is an important and often overlooked aspect of care for people with kidney disease. Similarly, conservative treatment of advanced kidney disease, or medical management without dialysis or transplantation, is not well understood by patients and care providers alike. In this episode of the Kidney Commute, our interprofessional team discusses these two important aspects of kidney disease care.

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until April 16, 2027

Cancer is the leading cause of death in the world, associated with high morbidity and mortality. This episode discusses how kidneys are affected by cancer and its treatment. Panelists discuss diagnosing and managing complex kidney problems, such as acute kidney injury associated with cancer and novel oncological therapies, as well as summarize drug dosing in patients with cancer. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute. 

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until February 24, 2027

2025 will bring BIG changes to the dialysis world.  As of Jan 01, oral phosphorus binders will be part of the dialysis payment bundle, out-of-pocket costs for prescription medications are changing in amounts and payment models, and coverage for certain dental services is expanding, to name a few.  In this episode we will explore how these changes will likely impact patients, nephrologists, and dialysis units. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute!

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until January 15, 2027

Patients and care team members often encounter challenges faced by individuals from different cultural backgrounds regarding access to kidney transplantation. This episode explores the impact of a culturally sensitive approach to living donation. Panelists will discuss resources to assist with approaching these conversations effectively while taking into consideration patient-specific factors such as culture, ethnicity, language and religious beliefs. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute.

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until January 8, 2027

Do all patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) need potassium restriction? In this episode we will explore the current guidelines of potassium intake in different CKD populations. Apart from the guidelines, we will explore the potassium concentration in foods and some tips and tricks for counseling patients. After listening to this episode, you will be in a better position to talk to patients about their potassium needs. Thanks for joining us on this ride of the Kidney Commute.

This episode offers CME/CE credit to eligible listeners. If you'd like to claim credit, please go to kidney.org/podcast-CE to register for this episode and complete requirements. 

Credit Available Until November 19, 2026

In this episode of the Kidney Commute podcast, panelists delve into the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in chronic kidney disease. The discussion explores the mechanisms of GLP-1 receptor agonists, their benefits in managing both kidney disease and related comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the latest evidence supporting their use. Panelists also address the practical challenges faced by both patients and providers, and share strategies for effective communication and patient engagement in treatment decisions. This episode provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals looking to optimize care for patients with CKD.

If you'd like to claim continuing education credit for this episode:

Before listening, click HERE to register and complete the pre-test. 

After listening, click HERE to complete the post-test and evaluation to claim credit. 

Credit Available Until September 6, 2026