Our story

Joe Graedon

President, The People's Pharmacy


About Joe Graedon

Education

Joe Graedon received his BS from Pennsylvania State University in 1967 and did research at the New Jersey Neuropsychiatric Institute. He earned his MS in pharmacology from the University of Michigan in 1971. He was conferred the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters honoris causa from Long Island University in 2006.

Professional Overview

Joe has lectured at Duke University and UCSF School of Pharmacy, taught pharmacology in Mexico, consulted for the FTC, and held various academic and advisory roles. He was elected AAAS Fellow in 2005 for his work in public health communication.

Accomplishments

Joe authored the bestselling *The People’s Pharmacy* in 1976. He uncovered issues with FDA oversight, including the Budeprion recall, and has long advocated for transparent drug safety information.

Honors

Joe has been recognized nationally for his contributions to health journalism, including keynote speeches and awards from academic and health institutions. He was elected AAAS Fellow and honored by Long Island University.

Expertise

  • Pharmacology
  • Drug side effects
  • Nutrition & Herbs
  • Home remedies
  • Self-care health strategies

Awards

  • Medical Self-Care Award, 1976
  • Alvarez Award, AMWA, 2003
  • Health Headliner of the Year, 1998
  • Silver Award from Corporation for Public Broadcasting, 1992

Books & Publications

  • The People’s Pharmacy (1976)
  • Top Screwups Doctors Make (2011)
  • Spice Up Your Health (2016)
  • Quick & Handy Home Remed

Terry Graedon

Co-Host & Co-Founder, The People's Pharmacy


About Terry Graedon

Education

Terry Graedon earned a BA in anthropology from UCLA, followed by a PhD in medical anthropology and nutrition from the University of California, Berkeley in 1977.

Professional Overview

Terry is an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition, combining rigorous academic insight with deep cultural understanding of health and healing. She has worked alongside Joe Graedon for decades producing, writing, and co-hosting The People's Pharmacy radio show and syndicated newspaper column.

Contributions

Terry has been instrumental in researching and writing about herbal medicine, nutrition, and the cultural aspects of health care. She has co-authored numerous books and is widely recognized for her clarity in translating complex medical topics for the public.

Media Work

  • Co-Host of The People’s Pharmacy public radio show (since 1979)
  • Co-Author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper column (since 1981)
  • Producer and writer for health content reaching millions nationally

Expertise

  • Medical anthropology
  • Nutrition and food as medicine
  • Herbal and botanical remedies
  • Health communication and consumer advocacy
  • Cultural dimensions of healing

Books & Publications

  • The People’s Pharmacy (co-author)
  • Best Choices from The People’s Pharmacy (co-author)
  • Spice Up Your Health (co-author)
  • Quick & Handy Home Remedies (co-author)
  • Guide to Home Remedies (co-author)

Personal

Terry and Joe Graedon have worked together for over four decades, combining science, compassion, and consumer empowerment in health education. Their partnership has become a trusted voice for millions seeking evidence-based alternatives and honest medical information.