Key Topics Discussed
- Dr. Jessica Steier discusses her love for data and information and shares her unconventional journey within public health to entrepreneurship.
- The Unbiased Science podcast, its origin as a source of factual COVID-19 information, what its goal is, and how it has evolved and gained a following.
- The differences between misinformation and disinformation, what actions can be made to combat them, and how to get educated.
- How social media, particularly TikTok, can be helpful in shedding light in previously underdiscussed issues (eg, women’s pain during IUD insertion) but also harmful in spreading misinformation.
Key Takeaways:
- Data-Based and Evidence-Informed Decisions: Using her podcast, Unbiased Science, Dr. Jessica Steier explains that she doesn’t intend to tell people what scientific opinions to have. Instead, she encourages listeners to use data and factual information to create their own evidence-based decisions to avoid falling for misinformation and disinformation.
- Misinformation Versus Disinformation:Dr. Steier explains that the difference in these terms revolves around intent. Misinformation refers to the unintentional spreading of inaccurate information, whereas disinformation is the intentional spread of false information. Dr. Steier also highlights a study conducted by the Center for Countering Digital Hate which found 12 people were responsible for the bulk of disinformation surrounding vaccines.
- The Benefits of Social Media: Although social media has been harmful in spreading misinformation and disinformation, Dr. Steier and Dr. Christina Madison discuss how it has been beneficial in emphasizing previously underdiscussed topics. As an example, they note the pain that women experience during IUD insertion, and how the mass discussion of that topic has encouraged health care practices to begin offering solutions and additional education.
Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
You can learn more about Unbiased Science podcast and Vital Statistics Consulting, and follow them on social media:
- Unbiased Science Podcast:
- Vital Statistics Consulting:
Connect with Jessica Steier on LinkedIn!
