Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast MSU Research Foundation Podcast

In this episode, David Washburn talks with Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Ventures at the MSU Research Foundation, about the growth of the Foundation's venture creation and investment platform and the expanding network of programs supporting entrepreneurs across Michigan. Jeff reflects on the success of the inaugural PitchMI competition, the statewide partnerships that made it possible, and what's ahead as PitchMI returns for a second year with new programming and opportunities for founders.

The conversation also explores several major milestones from the past year, including the growth of the MSU-Henry Ford Innovation Hub, the launch of the new $10 million Henry Ford + MSU Innovation Fund, and recent investments in emerging healthcare technologies. David and Jeff discuss the continued evolution of the Conquer Accelerator program as it marks its 10th anniversary, the Lab to Launch initiative connecting researchers with commercialization resources, and the Foundation's ongoing investment activity through Red Cedar Ventures and Michigan Rise.

Finally, they examine the broader innovation landscape, including collaboration among Big Ten universities and the formation of the Michigan Innovation Alliance. Jeff shares why partnerships, founder support, and a long-term commitment to innovation are critical to Michigan's future and how organizations across the state are working together toward the shared goal of becoming a top 10 innovation state.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Ventures, MSU Research Foundation
Producer: Jenna McNamara
Music: “Devil on Your Shoulder” by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, Pete Martin talks with Troy Morris, co-founder and CEO of KMI, about building “tow trucks for space” and the company’s mission to keep space clear for future generations.

Troy discusses the growing challenge of orbital debris, why satellites need servicing and repositioning, and how KMI is developing spacecraft capable of moving objects in orbit. The conversation explores KMI’s REACCH technology, testing aboard the International Space Station, the growing commercial and national security opportunities around space infrastructure, and what sets the company’s approach apart in an increasingly active space economy.

Pete and Troy also discuss KMI’s roots in Michigan, the journey from Northern Michigan University to building the company in Marquette, and the importance of investors who bring more than capital to the table. Troy looks ahead to a future where in-space servicing becomes routine and KMI helps build the infrastructure needed to support a growing economy in orbit.

Host: Pete Martin
Guest: Troy Morris, Co-Founder, KMI
Producer: Jenna McNamara
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, David Washburn talks with Jeff Smith, Executive Director of Research Parks at the MSU Research Foundation, about the Rosenberg Center, a new headquarters and innovation hub designed to support researchers, startups, and industry partners at Michigan State University.

Jeff discusses the vision behind the project, the growing demand for flexible startup space, and why the Foundation chose to transform an existing building into a collaborative environment for innovation. The conversation explores how the Rosenberg Center will bring together university programs, startup companies, corporate partners, and entrepreneurial support organizations while creating new opportunities for connection, events, and company growth.

David and Jeff also discuss the broader role of research parks and innovation infrastructure in supporting commercialization, the potential for a larger innovation district to emerge around the site, and the legacy of Dr. Barnett Rosenberg, whose groundbreaking research helped establish the foundation for the organization's work today.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Jeff Smith, Executive Director of Research Parks, MSU Research Foundation
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, David Washburn talks with Lesley Millar-Nicholson, Executive Director of the Technology Licensing Office at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, about university commercialization, startup creation, and the differences between innovation ecosystems in the Midwest and Boston.

Lesley reflects on her career in technology transfer, including her time at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and discusses how universities support researchers and entrepreneurs through licensing, startup development, and long-term ecosystem building. The conversation explores the challenges of commercialization, the complexity of university intellectual property, and why relationships and education remain central to successful tech transfer.

David and Lesley also discuss startup licensing models, incubator networks, venture activity around research universities, and the importance of storytelling in demonstrating the real-world impact of university innovation—with a brief detour into 3D-printed ice cream.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Lesley Millar-Nicholson, Executive Director, MIT Technology Licensing Office
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, David Washburn talks with Pete Martin, Director of Portfolio Management at the MSU Research Foundation, about the PitchMI competition—from the quarterfinal events held across Michigan to the championship in Lansing, where Adrenaline Interactive received a $1 million investment.

Pete reflects on the scale of the competition, which drew 375 startup applications from more than 100 communities across Michigan, and discusses the four finalist companies, the role of venture and ecosystem partners, and how the competition helped connect founders with investors, customers, and new opportunities for growth.

The conversation also looks ahead to the next PitchMI, including new quarterfinal events planned for fall 2026 and the MSU Research Foundation’s broader efforts to support startup growth across Michigan.

Host: David Washburn and Jeff Wesley
Guests: Pete Martin, Director of Portfolio Management, MSU Research Foundation
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, David Washburn talks with Dr. Mairi Gibbs, CEO of Oxford University Innovation, about how Oxford approaches commercialization, company creation, and ecosystem development.

Mairi shares her path from chemist to CEO and reflects on how university tech transfer has evolved—from traditional licensing to a broader model of knowledge exchange that includes entrepreneurship, consultancy, and social impact. She discusses Oxford’s approach to building a steady pipeline of spinout companies, the role of capital and talent, and how partnerships like Oxford Science Enterprises have helped accelerate growth.

The conversation also explores how Oxford supports researchers through early-stage development and the role universities play in driving long-term economic growth.

Host: David Washburn and Jeff Wesley
Guests: Dr. Mairi Gibbs, CEO, Oxford University Innovation
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, guest host Pete Martin talks with Parker Boundy, Co-Founder and CEO of General Orbit and a PitchMI Championship finalist, about advancing navigation and sensing technology for space and Earth-based applications.

Parker shares how General Orbit spun out of University of Michigan research to commercialize a new approach to magnetometers—using software to filter out interference and deliver highly accurate readings without complex hardware. Originally developed for satellites, the technology is now being applied to aviation, autonomous vehicles, and defense systems, with the potential to complement or replace GPS in critical environments. He reflects on the company’s rapid growth since launching in 2024, the role of university tech transfer, and the realities of building a hard-tech startup. As a PitchMI finalist, Parker also discusses preparing for the $1 million Championship and offers advice for founders building in Michigan.

Host: Pete Martin
Guests: Parker Boundy, Co-Founder and CEO, General Orbit
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, guest host Pete Martin talks with Lindsay A. Joseph, Co-Founder and CEO of BedConnect and a PitchMI Championship finalist, about improving how hospitals connect patients with post-acute care providers after discharge.

Lindsay shares how BedConnect helps hospitals and nursing facilities coordinate patient placements more efficiently by matching clinical needs, bed availability, and insurance networks in real time. She reflects on her path from healthcare consulting and hospital leadership to launching a startup, the firsthand experiences that inspired BedConnect, and the challenges of building technology in the healthcare system. As a PitchMI finalist, Lindsay also discusses preparing for the $1 million Championship and offers advice for founders building companies in Michigan.

Host: Pete Martin
Guests: Lindsay A. Joseph, Co-Founder and CEO, BedConnect
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, guest host Pete Martin talks with Max Albert, Founder and CEO of Adrenaline Interactive and a PitchMI Championship finalist, about transforming how brands and video games work together to create more immersive, measurable advertising experiences.

Max shares how Adrenaline Interactive uses AI to integrate branded products directly into game environments—making ads feel native to gameplay while delivering real sales attribution for advertisers. He reflects on his path from building a Michigan-based game studio to launching a venture-backed startup, the early support and connections that helped shape the company’s growth, and the realities of scaling in the rapidly evolving gaming and AI landscape. As a PitchMI finalist, Max also discusses preparation for the $1 million Championship and offers advice for founders building in Michigan.

Host: Pete Martin
Guests: Max Albert, Founder and CEO, Adrenaline Interactive
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, guest host Pete Martin talks with Josef Hjelmaker, Founder and CEO of Electric Outdoors and a PitchMI Championship finalist, about building sustainable, off-grid infrastructure that unlocks new possibilities for landowners and communities.

Josef shares how Electric Outdoors developed the EO Canopy—a self-sustaining, solar-powered platform that enables energy independence, EV charging, and resilient microgrid capabilities without traditional infrastructure. He reflects on his path from global leadership roles in automotive, appliance, and RV manufacturing to launching a Michigan-based startup, the early support from the MSU Research Foundation and Michigan Rise, and the realities of scaling a hard-tech company. As a PitchMI finalist, Josef also discusses preparation for the $1 million Championship and offers advice for founders building in Michigan.

Host: Pete Martin
Guests: Josef Hjelmaker, Founder and CEO, Electric Outdoors
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, David Washburn talks with Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Ventures at the MSU Research Foundation, about the rapid growth of venture creation and early-stage investing across Michigan.

Jeff shares updates on the Conquer Accelerator’s 10-year milestone, recent sector-based and regional cohorts, and partnerships with Henry Ford Health, Michigan Virtual, and MSU Federal Credit Union. He discusses how these programs are attracting startups from across the country and helping founders connect with customers, capital, and mentors.

The conversation also explores the Foundation’s growing investment activity, recent exits—including ATLAS Space Operations, FirstIgnite, and TheraB—and what they signal for Michigan’s innovation economy, along with a preview of the PitchMI Championship on April 7 at Grewal Hall.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Jeff Wesley (Executive Director of Ventures, MSU Research Foundation)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, David Washburn talks with Michigan State University Provost Dr. Laura Lee McIntyre about her path to MSU and how her experiences in research, fundraising, and innovation are shaping her leadership at the university.

Dr. McIntyre shares lessons from helping launch the Ballmer Institute for Children’s Behavioral Health and Launch Oregon, and how those efforts inform MSU’s approach to interdisciplinary research, entrepreneurship, and commercialization. She also discusses the role of seed funding, shared governance, endowed professorships, and why cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset across disciplines is essential to strengthening Michigan’s innovation ecosystem.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Dr. Laura Lee McIntyre (Provost, Michigan State University; MSU Research Foundation Distinguished Professor)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, David Washburn and Jeff Wesley talk with Michigan State University President Kevin Guskiewicz about how research, policy, and partnerships drive economic growth and improve lives across Michigan.

Kevin reflects on his career in concussion research and how federally funded science led to major changes in NCAA and NFL safety standards. He also discusses the importance of advocating for public research funding, MSU’s expanding presence in Detroit, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing, and new initiatives supporting healthcare innovation, commercialization, and entrepreneurship. The conversation explores MSU’s “one team” approach to collaboration, emerging workforce and AI programs, and what gives him optimism about Michigan’s innovation ecosystem.

Host: David Washburn and Jeff Wesley
Guests: Kevin Guskiewicz Wesley (President, Michigan State University)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, David Washburn talks with Craig Wesley, Executive Director of 20Fathoms in Traverse City, about how northern Michigan is cultivating a vibrant entrepreneurial community and expanding opportunities for early-stage founders across a 10-county region.

Craig shares his path from Michigan State University to two decades in Silicon Valley and back to Traverse City, and how that experience shaped his vision for building an environment where innovators can thrive. He discusses the evolution of 20Fathoms from a local coworking hub to a regional catalyst for startup activity, along with emerging strengths in freshwater research, fisheries innovation, and drone technology. Craig and Dave also explore how statewide partnerships, new research facilities, and collaborations like PitchMI and Conquer Accelerator are creating more pathways for entrepreneurs across northern Michigan.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Craig Wesley (Executive Director, 20Fathoms)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, David Washburn talks with Lisa Prasad, Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at Henry Ford Health, and Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Ventures at the MSU Research Foundation, about how Michigan State University and Henry Ford Health are accelerating healthcare innovation through collaboration and venture investment.

Lisa shares how Henry Ford Innovations evolved to translate research and clinical expertise into real-world impact—supporting pilots, startups, and technologies that improve care and reduce costs. Jeff discusses the launch of the MSU-Henry Ford Health Innovation Hub and $10 million Healthcare Innovation Fund, and how these initiatives are driving commercialization, attracting international startups, and strengthening Michigan’s healthcare ecosystem.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Lisa Prasad (Chief Innovation Officer, Henry Ford Health) and Jeff Wesley (Executive Director of Ventures, MSU Research Foundation)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, David Washburn interviews Pete Martin, Director of Portfolio Management at the MSU Research Foundation, about the launch of PitchMI—a new statewide startup pitch competition awarding up to $1.25 million in investment. Pete shares his journey back to Michigan after building a tech career across New York, Chicago, Florida, and Austin, and how reconnecting with the state’s entrepreneurial community reshaped his view of Michigan as a hub for innovation.

We explore Pete’s role in supporting portfolio companies, the momentum he’s seen across Michigan’s startup ecosystem, and how PitchMI will highlight regional strengths in healthcare, clean tech, mobility, software, and AI. Pete also discusses the importance of fostering collaboration across cities, showcasing Michigan’s competitive advantages, and creating opportunities for founders to access capital, talent, and support networks statewide.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Pete Martin (Director of Portfolio Management, MSU Research Foundation)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, David Washburn interviews Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Ventures at the MSU Research Foundation, to recap a high-impact fourth quarter of venture activity. Jeff shares highlights from 20 new investments and financial transactions completed between April and June 2025, including support for startups tackling everything from microbiome therapeutics to plant health monitoring, as well as portfolio wins like the acquisition of Atlas Space Operations and a major funding milestone for Traverse City–based Takanak.

We also cover two major announcements: the launch of a new $10.6 million evergreen fund, created with support from the Michigan Innovation Fund, and a $10 million healthcare innovation fund in partnership with Henry Ford Health + MSU Health Sciences. Jeff discusses what these new initiatives mean for early-stage investing in Michigan, and why statewide partnerships are key to building a more competitive startup ecosystem.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Jeff Wesley (Executive Director of Ventures, MSU Research Foundation)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, David Washburn interviews Chad Bassett, Chief Operating Officer of BAMF Health, a precision medicine company transforming how cancer is diagnosed and treated. Based in MSU’s Grand Rapids Innovation Park, BAMF Health combines advanced imaging, targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy, and artificial intelligence to deliver highly personalized care and accelerate clinical trials.

Chad shares the company’s origin story, which began with a 40-year vision sketched on a restaurant placemat and has grown into one of the most advanced cancer treatment centers in the country. The conversation covers BAMF’s expansion to Detroit, its soon-to-launch clinical trial platform called Radio Nexus, and how the company is using AI to improve care and make it more affordable. Chad also discusses BAMF’s partnerships with Michigan State University, GE Healthcare, and the state of Michigan—and why expanding access and modernizing outdated regulations are key to their mission.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Chad Bassett (Chief Operating Officer, BAMF Health)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, we talk with Jon Barada, vice president of IU Ventures, about how Indiana University is building a thriving startup ecosystem powered by alumni engagement and early-stage venture funding. Like the MSU Research Foundation, IU Ventures supports faculty, student, and alumni-led startups through a mix of philanthropic venture funds, an angel network, and community-building programs.

Jon shares how IU Ventures launched its Founders and Funders Network to connect IU-affiliated entrepreneurs with capital, expertise, and one another. We discuss the growing role universities play in early-stage investing—especially in regions underserved by traditional venture capital—and how cross-campus and Big Ten collaboration can help amplify impact. Jon also talks about building trust with advancement teams, cultivating a strong alumni pipeline, and the vision behind the Big Ten Venture Network.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Jon Barada (Vice President, IU Ventures)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, we talk with Peter Falzon, president and CEO of Ripple Science, a clinical trials software company that spun out of the University of Michigan and now serves researchers around the world. Ripple’s platform helps academic institutions, healthcare providers, and industry sponsors recruit and retain participants in clinical studies, tackling one of the top reasons clinical trials fail.

Peter shares how he went from launching startups in Silicon Valley and Japan to becoming a mentor-in-residence back in Michigan, where he helped Ripple transition from a homegrown academic tool into a flexible, scalable platform. We discuss the challenges of participant engagement, why trials often struggle to meet recruitment goals, and how Ripple’s AI-powered tools help researchers do more with less. Peter also talks about building the company with support from Michigan’s university and venture capital ecosystems—and why now is a critical moment for clinical research innovation.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Peter Falzon (President and CEO, Ripple Science)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, we talk with Dr. Tom Guarr, founder and CTO of Jolt Energy Storage Technologies, a Michigan-based startup developing organic compounds for redox flow batteries. Tom shares his journey from academia to industry—first leaving a tenured faculty role to join Gentex, where he helped develop dimmable windows for the Boeing 787, then returning to research at the MSU Bioeconomy Institute to pursue electrochemical innovation.

We explore how Jolt pivoted from lithium-ion battery safety to large-scale, sustainable energy storage. Tom explains why flow batteries are well suited for the grid, how organic chemistry can reduce reliance on rare earth elements, and how Michigan’s startup ecosystem has supported the company’s growth. He also discusses partnerships with national labs like Argonne and NREL, and what it will take to bring Jolt’s prototype system online by the end of the year.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Dr. Tom Guarr (CTO, Jolt Energy Storage Technologies)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, we talk with Nick Farina and Dr. Johannes Pollanen of EeroQ, a quantum computing startup with roots at Michigan State University. Johannes is a physics professor at MSU and co-founder of the company, while Nick serves as EeroQ’s CEO. Together, they’re working on a unique approach to quantum computing that uses electrons floating on helium and connects with today’s chip-making technology.

We dive into how their system works, why they focused on making it scalable from the beginning, and what makes it different from other methods being explored. Nick and Johannes also share how the company got started, why they waited to raise venture capital, and the role MSU played in launching the effort.

Host: David Washburn
Guests: Nick Farina (CEO, EeroQ) and Dr. Johannes Pollanen (Cowan Professor of Physics at MSU and Co-founder, EeroQ)
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode, we talk with Dr. Mark Frohlich, CEO of Indapta Therapeutics, a biotech company working to make cancer treatment safer, more effective, and more accessible. Indapta is developing natural killer (NK) cell therapies—an emerging form of immunotherapy that uses the body’s own immune system to fight disease.

Mark shares his path from clinical oncology to biotech leadership and explains why NK cells are generating excitement as a next-generation alternative to existing treatments like CAR-T. We discuss how Indapta’s work could help more patients benefit from cell therapy, what it takes to move from lab research to human trials, and how strong partnerships—including early support from Michigan State University—are fueling the company’s progress.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Dr. Mark Frohlich, CEO of Indapta Therapeutics
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In part two of our conversation with Bruno Basso, professor at Michigan State University and co-founder of CIBO Technologies, we explore what it takes to scale scientific innovation into a venture-backed company. Bruno discusses his role as Chief Scientist, pitching to investors like Al Gore, and the importance of grounding technology in rigorous, transparent science.

We also dive into the intersection of AI and agriculture, the challenges of sparse data, and how CIBO is combining process-based models with machine learning to improve decision-making in food systems. Bruno shares his thoughts on the Midwest’s innovation ecosystem, what makes East Lansing an underrated tech hub, and why he remains optimistic about the future of climate resilience in agriculture.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Bruno Basso, Professor at MSU and co-founder of CIBO Technologies
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In part one of this two-part episode, we talk with Bruno Basso, professor at Michigan State University and co-founder of CIBO Technologies, a company using advanced modeling to help farmers make smarter decisions that improve both productivity and environmental outcomes. Bruno shares his journey from Naples, Italy to MSU, where he helped pioneer crop modeling techniques that have shaped modern agricultural research.

We explore how Bruno's lab integrates remote sensing, drones, and simulation models to capture the complexity of farming across space and time—and how this research evolved into CIBO Technologies, a venture-backed platforming helping businesses quantify the environmental impact of food production. Bruno also discusses the entrepreneurial side of science, what it takes to build a 30-person research team, and how smart agriculture can benefit farmers, businesses, and the planet.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Bruno Basso, Professor at MSU and co-founder of CIBO Technologies
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, we talk with Mike Klein, CEO of Genomenon, a genomics intelligence company helping researchers and clinicians make sense of vast amounts of genetic data. Mike shares his journey from electrical engineering to leading a genomics startup, discussing how Genomenon’s AI-driven platform, Mastermind, is accelerating precision medicine by making genomic information actionable.

We explore how Genomenon’s technology is used by healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies worldwide, the company’s evolution amid the AI revolution, and how their work has directly impacted patient lives. Mike also reflects on Michigan’s growing startup ecosystem, the role of early-stage investment, and the collaborative support from both Michigan State University and the University of Michigan in scaling the company.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Mike Klein, CEO of Genomenon
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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In this episode we talk with James Klausner, professor of mechanical engineering at Michigan State University and co-founder of Redoxblox, a startup developing thermochemical energy storage solutions. James shares his journey from academic research to entrepreneurship, discussing how his work in energy storage led to the founding of Redoxblox and its mission to decarbonize industrial heat. They explore the challenges of commercializing university research, the role of venture capital in deep-tech startups, and why Redoxblox’s technology is poised to compete with natural gas for industrial heating applications. James also reflects on building a business model that remains independent of government subsidies and how strategic investors play a critical role in scaling the company. This episode highlights the intersection of research, commercialization, and the drive to make a lasting impact on the energy sector.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: James Klausner, Co-founder of Redoxblox and Professor at Michigan State University
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode we talk with Jason Miller, founder and CEO of BitLyft, a cybersecurity company based in St. John’s, Michigan. Jason shares his entrepreneurial journey, from starting a company in Tampa, Florida, to returning to Michigan to build BitLyft, which specializes in cybersecurity solutions for mid-market organizations. They discuss BitLyft’s evolution from co-managed SIM services to its flagship TrueMDR platform, emphasizing the critical role of detection and automated incident response in today’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape. Jason also reflects on the challenges of building a sustainable business in rural Michigan while fostering a strong company culture across remote and local teams. This episode highlights Jason’s passion for innovation, customer-focused partnerships, and creating impact in his community.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Jason Miller, Founder and CEO of BitLyft
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

In this episode, David Washburn introduces Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Ventures at the MSU Research Foundation. Jeff shares his journey from growing up in Chesney, Michigan, to leading transformative ventures at the Foundation. With a rich background in accounting, leadership, and entrepreneurial innovation, Jeff discusses his roles at Deloitte, a dental distribution company, and Two Men and a Truck before joining the MSU Research Foundation. Together, they delve into the creation of the Foundation's venture ecosystem, including its venture creation and investments subsidiaries—Spartan Innovations, Red Cedar Ventures, and Michigan Rise. Jeff offers insights into fostering entrepreneurship, building high-impact teams, and driving innovation across Michigan. This is the first of many conversations with Jeff, setting the stage for exploring the exciting work happening within the MSU ecosystem.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Jeff Wesley, Executive Director of Ventures, MSU Research Foundation
Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen
Music: "Devil on Your Shoulder" by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

PILOT 1: In this episode of "Started @ State," Dave interviews Jeff Smith, Director of Research Parks at the MSU Research Foundation and board member of the Association of University Research Parks (AURP). 

Jeff provides a deep dive into the world of university research parks, their evolution, and their impact on innovation and economic development.

Key Takeaways:

• Research parks are hubs for startups, innovative companies, and university-related activities, fostering collaboration and growth.
• These parks have evolved from isolated research spaces to vibrant communities with amenities like amphitheaters and retail spaces.
• The AURP focuses on advocacy, knowledge sharing, and best practices for its 250 members, promoting innovation.
• Research parks are typically developed through public-private partnerships and are often located near universities to leverage talent and resources.
• Post-COVID work trends include a shift towards mixed-use innovation buildings and integrated amenities, enhancing research environments.

Jeff explains how research parks foster industry-university partnerships and drive economic development. He shares examples of innovative parks across the country and highlights the various amenities that make these spaces attractive to both startups and established companies.

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