RealPharma: Conversations with Pharma Pathfinders – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this conversation, Roger Estafanos discusses the evolving field of radiopharmaceuticals, highlighting their transformative impact on cancer treatment and patient care.

He explains the targeted nature of these therapies, the importance of personalized medicine, and the challenges faced in regulatory processes and patient safety. The discussion also covers the role of different radioisotopes, the complexities of supply chain management, and the need for improved access to these innovative treatments.

The conversation delves into the complexities and advancements in the field of radiopharmaceuticals, focusing on logistics, future opportunities, investment landscapes, commercialization challenges, talent acquisition, and technological innovations. The speakers emphasize the importance of optimizing supply chains, the potential for expanding applications beyond oncology, and the role of AI in enhancing imaging processes.

They also discuss the need for education among healthcare providers and patients, as well as the personal motivations driving their work in this evolving field.

Resources:

• Roger Estafanos on LinkedIn

**Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI)**  

Comprehensive resource on the use of radiopharmaceuticals in imaging and therapy: [https://www.snmmi.org]

**Theragnostics Explained**  

An introduction to theragnostic approaches combining diagnostics and therapy: [https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/theragnostic]

**U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)**  

Guidelines for handling, licensing, and safe administration of radiopharmaceuticals: [https://www.nrc.gov]

**FDA Guidance on Radiopharmaceuticals**  

Regulatory pathways and guidelines for the development of radiopharmaceuticals: [https://www.fda.gov]

**Patient Advocacy in Radiopharmaceuticals**  

Information for patients and caregivers about radiopharmaceutical therapies: [https://www.patientadvocate.org]

**Radiopharmaceutical Treatment Education**  

Tips and safety guidelines for patients undergoing radiopharmaceutical treatments: [https://www.cancer.net]

**AI in Radiopharmaceutical Imaging**  

How AI is transforming diagnostic imaging and patient care: [https://www.auntminnie.com]

**Global Radiopharmaceutical Market Reports**  

Market trends, forecasts, and analysis: [https://www.globenewswire.com]

In this conversation, Aaron Burnett, from Wheelhouse DMG, discusses the rapid evolution of digital marketing in the healthcare sector, emphasizing the importance of data strategy and compliance with regulations like HIPAA.

He highlights the shift from third-party data reliance to first-party data utilization, which enhances marketing effectiveness and patient engagement.

The discussion also covers the need for collaboration among marketing, compliance, and IT teams to develop effective data strategies and the role of customer data platforms in personalizing healthcare marketing efforts.

In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of data privacy, patient consent, and the ethical implications of using AI in healthcare. They discuss the transformative role of AI and machine learning in digital health, emphasizing the importance of first-party data and the need for compelling content.

The conversation also touches on marketing strategies in a digital landscape, the evolution of media mix modeling, and the tools that enhance digital marketing efforts. Finally, the discussion concludes with an inspiring anecdote about unconventional thinking and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

Resources:

• Aaron Burnett on LinkedIn
• Wheelhouse DMG
• Digital Marketing 2024: The Complete Guide For Beginners

In this episode, Dr. Na-Ri Oh and Ian Wendt discuss the 340B drug pricing program with guest William Sarraille, a healthcare law expert.

They explore the origins of the program and its intended purpose. However, the program has grown exponentially and is now the second largest drug program in the country. Bill raises concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the program, as well as the impact on patients. He argues that the program should focus on delivering value to patients and ensuring that they benefit from the discounts.

The conversation delves into the complexities and challenges of the 340B program, highlighting issues such as the patient definition, transparency, contract pharmacies, and the allocation of funds. The discussion considers the need for a more comprehensive and transparent system that ensures the benefits of the program flow to the patients. They also explore the possibility of implementing a claims data process that provides faster payment and greater certainty for both manufacturers and 340B entities.

The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of leadership and collaboration in finding solutions to the program's problems.

Resources:

• William Sarraille on LinkedIn
• HRSA 340B Information
• American Hospital Information (AHA) Fact Sheet
• 340BHealth.org

Summary

Dr. Ron Shigeta, a pioneer in the biotech startup ecosystem, shares his insights and experiences in this episode. He discusses the success of IndieBio, a biotech accelerator that demonstrated the potential of modest investments in fueling biotech innovations.

Dr. Shigeta also highlights the importance of timing, luck, and having a clear vision in the biotech industry. He explains the differences between synthetic biology and pharma startups and the challenges and opportunities they present.

Additionally, he discusses the factors he considers when evaluating startup opportunities and the mindset of successful entrepreneurs. Finally, he shares his perspective on managing risk in biotech startups and the personal transition of becoming a startup CEO. In this conversation, Ron Shigeta discusses the landscape of venture capital funds and startup incubators, highlighting the importance of fund size and check-writing capabilities. He also explains his attraction to the food industry and the deep structural biology of food. The convergence of food and biotech is explored, with a focus on consumer applications and health-related applications. Ron shares different strategies for innovation and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He discusses promising areas for transformational impact, including the golden age of biology and the future of food and sustainability.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Ron Shigeta

01:31 Dr. Shigeta's transition from scientist to biotech startup figure

05:19 The impact of IndieBio's small investment model

08:43 The economics of biotech startups

09:57 Different pathways in biotech: synthetic biology vs. pharma

13:42 Factors in evaluating startup opportunities

14:09 The mindset of successful entrepreneurs

19:35 The importance of company vision and team dynamics

22:23 Managing risk in biotech startups

27:28 The personal transition of becoming a startup CEO

31:23 The risk tolerance of entrepreneurs

32:36 Venture Capital Funds and Startup Incubators

37:15 The Attraction of the Food Industry

42:30 Convergence of Food and Biotech

46:12 Innovation in Biotech and Pharma

49:37 Different Strategies for Innovation

51:42 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

53:47 Promising Areas for Transformational Impact

01:01:26 The Golden Age of Biology

01:04:51 The Impact of Whole Foods Conference

01:08:49 The Future of Food and Sustainability

Resources:

• Ron Shigeta on LinkedIn
• Ron Shigeta on X (Twitter)
• iAccelerate

In this enlightening episode of the RealPharma Podcast, hosts Ian Wendt and Dr. Nari Oh sit down with Dr. Steven King, a luminary in the field of ethnobotanical research and sustainable pharmaceutical development. Dr. King, currently serving as the Chief Sustainable Supply, Ethnobotanical Research, and IP Officer at Jaguar Health, shares his remarkable journey from a young adventurer in the Amazon rainforest to a pioneering figure in the integration of traditional botanical knowledge with modern medicine.

Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of ethnobotany, exploring how Dr. King's lifelong passion for plant-based healing has led to groundbreaking developments in the pharmaceutical industry. Discover the story behind the Croton lechleri tree, popularly known as the Dragon's Blood tree, and how its unique properties have been harnessed to create an FDA-approved medication derived from this Amazonian marvel.

Dr. King offers insights into his early experiences living with indigenous communities in South America, learning about their traditional uses of plants for medicine, and the ethical considerations involved in bringing these ancient practices into the global market. We discuss the importance of sustainability and respectful collaboration with local communities, emphasizing the crucial balance between conservation and commerce.

This episode also touches on the broader implications of Dr. King’s work, from his contributions to the Healing Forest Conservatory to the role of bioethics in the commercialization of traditional knowledge. As the conversation unfolds, we explore the exciting future of plant-based therapeutics and the potential for ethnobotanical research to address some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.

Tune in for a captivating discussion that spans decades of exploration, scientific discovery, and cultural exchange, highlighting how ancient wisdom can inform and transform modern healthcare.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ethnobotany

02:04 Biocultural Diversity and Pharmaceutical Development

13:20 The Croton lechleri Tree and its Medicinal Uses

15:59 Ethnobotanical Research vs. Traditional Drug Development

21:39 Intellectual Property and Benefit-Sharing

24:27 Ethical and Sustainable Practices in Working with Indigenous Communities

28:27 Respecting Indigenous Knowledge and Rights in Plant-Based Medicine Development

34:03 The Financial Benefits of Commercializing Plant-Based Drugs for Indigenous Communities

36:23 The Potential Therapeutic Applications of Psychedelic Research

Resources:

• Dr. Steven King - LinkedIn
• One River: Explorations and Discoveries in the Amazon Rain Forest
• Plants, People, and Culture: The Science of Ethnobotany

In this episode of the Real Pharma Podcast, we delve into the intricacies of effective executive communication with Dr. Laura Sicola, a renowned expert in leadership communication and cognitive linguistics. Dr. Sicola has spent over two decades transforming top-level executives into confident, inspiring leaders. Her unique approach, grounded in cognitive linguistics, empowers professionals to communicate their passion and expertise effectively, ensuring they get the buy-in they need for the results they want.

Join us as we explore these topics and more, providing valuable insights for pharma professionals and anyone looking to enhance their executive communication skills. Dr. Sicola's expertise offers a roadmap to becoming a more effective and inspiring leader.

Chapters

00:00:00 - Introduction to WIFM: What's In It For Me?

00:00:34 - Real Pharma Podcast Introduction

00:01:02 - Introducing Dr. Laura Sicola

00:02:37 - Welcome and TEDx Talk Discussion

00:03:51 - Defining Linguistics

00:04:41 - Importance of How You Say It

00:05:52 - The Myth of Content vs. Delivery

00:07:01 - The Linguistic Glass Ceiling

00:09:06 - Transitioning from Technical Expertise to Leadership

00:11:04 - Your Work Speaks for Itself, But Not for You

00:12:24 - Developing Leadership Skills

00:13:07 - The Challenge of Self-Awareness

00:15:33 - Recording Yourself for Self-Diagnosis

00:17:16 - Impact of COVID on Communication

00:18:48 - Basic Skills for Effective Communication

00:20:14 - Executive Presentations: What's In It For Them?

00:23:05 - Seeking Constructive Feedback

00:25:27 - Common Reasons for Seeking Coaching

00:27:05 - The Expert's Curse

00:29:37 - The Gift of Clear Feedback

00:30:39 - Proactively Seeking Feedback

00:32:14 - Questions to Ask for Constructive Feedback

00:35:01 - The Importance of Diverse Feedback

00:36:20 - Communicating Complex Data Effectively

00:37:04 - The Role of Slide Design in Communication

00:40:13 - The Value of Interpretation and Insights

00:41:17 - Two Versions of PowerPoint: Pre-Read and Presentation

00:43:08 - The $200 is $200 Rule

Resources

Find Dr. Laura Sicola on:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• laurasicola.com
• Speaking To Influence
• TEDx Talk

Summary

Ilisa Bernstein, a senior Vice President at the American Pharmacists Association, discusses the history and current landscape of drug importation policies with a focus on Florida's program.

Safety concerns, supply chain issues, and intellectual property rights are key considerations. The impact on the Canadian drug supply and the transparency of imported drugs for consumers are also discussed. Manufacturer concerns regarding rebates and discounts, as well as potential oversupply and export restrictions, are highlighted. The conversation explores the complexities and concerns surrounding drug importation programs. It discusses the mechanisms that manufacturers may use to control drug importation, such as restricting volume or increasing prices. The potential impact on the drug supply in Canada and the need for policies to protect it are also examined. The logistical challenges at the border and the vulnerabilities in the drug supply chain are highlighted. The importance of maintaining patient confidence in drug quality and the risks associated with personal drug importation are discussed. The conversation concludes by considering alternative solutions to lower drug prices and the inspiration drawn from historical figures.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction of Ilisa Bernstein

01:19 Background on Drug Importation

08:21 Safety Concerns

10:04 Supply Chain and Drug Source

14:58 Transparency and IP Issues

20:57 Consumer Transparency and NDC Numbers

21:10 Intellectual Property Concerns

22:59 Challenges and Points of Contention

25:12 Manufacturer Concerns: Rebates and Discounts

28:06 Oversupply and Export Restrictions

29:09 Mechanisms to Control Drug Importation

30:39 Policies to Protect Drug Supply in Canada

31:12 Logistical Challenges at the Border

33:07 Vulnerabilities in the Drug Supply Chain

35:03 Maintaining Patient Confidence in Drug Quality

36:31 Risks Before the Border

38:01 Complexities and Concerns for Community Pharmacists

41:31 The Future of Drug Importation Programs

44:00 The Motivation Behind Drug Importation Programs

46:01 Exploring Other Solutions to Lower Drug Prices

48:19 The Illegality of Personal Drug Importation

49:05 Balancing Cost Savings and Patient Safety

50:02 Inspiration from Historical Figures

Resources:

• Ilisa Bernstein

• American Pharmacists Association

• The Partnership for Safe Medicines

Summary

In this episode, Kristiaan Rawlings discusses the 2024-2025 Commercial Market Update and Salary Guide produced by EPM Scientific. The life sciences sector remains resilient due to aging populations, scientific advances, and robust investment. Hiring practices and compensation are influenced by these factors across the Americas, Europe, and APAC regions. The hiring focus has shifted from life-threatening diseases to more common health issues, such as dermatology and respiratory diseases. The most in-demand roles include marketing, commercial operations (salesforce effectiveness, commercial analytics, and training), and sales. Market access roles have seen less demand. Despite the availability of talent, salaries have remained high or even increased. In this conversation, Kristiaan Rawlings discusses the current trends in the life sciences job market, specifically in the commercial operations field. He explains the increase in demand for talent, the impact of title deflation, and the rise in salaries. He also highlights the regional differences in job opportunities, with a shift towards the East Coast of the United States. Additionally, he touches on the importance of executive presence and the return of in-person networking events. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the life sciences job market.

Chapters

00:00 High Demand for Marketing Roles

04:26 Focus on Core Areas with Existing Blockbuster Products

05:53 Sought-After Skills for Commercial Operations and Product Launches

13:54 Challenges with LinkedIn Applications and Fake Job Postings

24:25 Selective Market Based on Therapy Area and Experience

24:51 The Three Pillars of Focus: Salesforce Effectiveness, Commercial Analytics, and Training

25:21 High Demand for Talent in Incentive Compensation, Analytics, and Competitive Intelligence

26:17 Sales Roles in High Demand During Product Launches

26:46 Quiet Market in the Field of Market Access

27:14 Salaries Holding Strong or Increasing Despite High Supply of Talent

32:30 Geography Becoming Less of a Factor in Salary and Opportunity

41:08 High Demand for Medical Affairs and Health Economics

44:01 The Importance of Executive Presence and Networking for Career Success

Resources

• Kristiaan Rawlings - LinkedIn

• 2024/2025 EPM Commercial Update and Salary Guide

Summary

In this episode, hosts Ian Wendt and Dr. Na-Ri Oh , and guest Kira Dineen discuss the intersection of genomics and healthcare. They explore the concept of personalized medicine and how advancements in genomics are revolutionizing healthcare. Kira shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her DNA Today podcast. The conversation delves into the technology behind personalized medicine and the challenges of building comprehensive genetic databases. The ethical considerations of genomics, including access to information and the potential misuse of genetic data, are also explored. The episode concludes with a discussion on the need for ethical frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements in genomics. The conversation explores the controversial topic of gene editing, particularly the use of CRISPR technology. The hosts discuss the ethical considerations and the choice of genetic targets for editing. They also touch on the accessibility and long-term consequences of CRISPR. The conversation then shifts to the cost of treatment and the role of genetic testing in drug development. The potential of AI in genetic research is explored, as well as the future of personalized medicine. The episode concludes with a discussion on professional motivation and the importance of networking.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kira Dineen and the Intersection of Genomics and Healthcare

02:07 Genomics and Personalized Medicine

04:13 Kira Dineen's Personal Journey and the DNA Today Podcast

08:08 The Trend Towards Personalized Medicine in Biopharma

10:11 The Technology Behind Personalized Medicine

12:39 Building Databases and Overcoming Barriers

15:18 Ethical Considerations in Genomics

20:39 Ethics and the Use of Genetic Information

24:06 Ethics Keeping Pace with Technological Advances

25:44 Managing Ethical Considerations in Genetic Research

27:21 Controversial Gene Editing

28:18 Choosing Genetic Targets

29:10 Ethical Considerations

29:44 Accessibility of CRISPR

30:13 Long-Term Consequences of CRISPR

32:51 Healthcare Equity and Cost of Treatment

34:25 Cost of Genomic Sequencing

35:22 Genetic Testing and Drug Development

38:13 Role of Genetic Testing in Clinical Trials

42:20 AI in Genetic Research

46:34 Future of Personalized Medicine

49:56 Professional Motivation and Networking

Resources:

• Kira Dineen, MS, LCGC, CG(ASCP)CM (LInkedIn, Twitter)
• DNAtoday.com
• Breath from Salt (DNA Today author interview Episode #147)
• Maury Povich interview on DNA Today 
• Patient Empowerment Program: A Rare Disease Podcast 

Dive into the high-stakes world of Venture Capital in biopharma with Jim Trenkle! Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn groundbreaking scientific discoveries into life-saving treatments? What role do venture capitalists play in this thrilling journey from the lab to the clinic? This episode peels back the curtain on the biopharma venture capital scene, revealing the risks, rewards, and radical innovations driving the future of healthcare. Join hosts Dr. Na-Ri Oh and Ian Wendt as they explore with Jim the secrets of successful biopharma investments, the challenges of navigating the complex landscape of medical research funding, and the thrilling potential of the next big breakthroughs. Don't miss this conversation that could change the way you see medicine and innovation.

In this episode, Jim Trenkle, a partner at Nova Holdings, shares insights on venture capital in the biopharma industry. He explains the different stages of investment, from seed rounds to IPOs, and the role of venture capitalists in providing capital and expertise.

Jim discusses the current state of raising capital for biotech startups, including the impact of interest rates and market conditions. He also highlights the challenges and evaluation criteria in biotech VC, emphasizing the importance of a well-thought-out plan and addressing unmet needs.

Jim Trenkle also discusses his own career path and the importance of finding work that has a deeper impact. He shares his journey from being a medicinal chemist to venture capital, highlighting the value of lifelong learning and broadening one's impact. Trenkle also discusses the challenges and skills required in venture capital, emphasizing the need for humility and the ability to make decisions that have a real impact. He reflects on the lessons learned from the Theranos scandal and the role of venture capitalists in evaluating companies.

Trenkle explores the reasons behind company closures and failures in the biopharma industry and the potential for innovation and technological advances to shape the future of venture capital. He concludes with advice on career growth and the importance of following one's passion.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction of Jim Trankel

01:01 Understanding Venture Capital in BioPharma

07:59 The Current State of Raising Capital for Biotech Startups

11:23 The Landscape of Biotech Funding

16:25 Challenges and Evaluation in Biotech VC

23:16 What Does Good Look Like and Pitfalls to Avoid

31:19 Jim Trankel's Career Path

31:59 Career Path and Impact

35:19 Challenges and Skills in Venture

37:05 Evaluating Companies and Capital Allocators

38:23 Lessons from Theranos

46:01 Company Closures and Failures

52:42 The Future of VC in Biopharma

58:32 Advice and Mentors

Resources

• Jim Trenkle, PhD (LinkedIn)
• Novo Holdings

1. **2024 US Venture Capital Outlook | PitchBook**: Provides predictions for the US VC ecosystem in 2024, including insights on unicorn companies and valuation trends

2. **2024 Venture Capital Trends: Opportunities and Challenges - Founders Network**: Discusses the shift towards startups demonstrating strong fundamentals and a clear path to profitability

3. **2024 Outlook: Private Equity & Venture Capital - Cambridge Associates**: Highlights the expected increase in capital flows to private European turnaround and value strategies

4. **5 Trends to Watch: 2024 Venture Capital | Greenberg Traurig LLP**: Governance issues and IPO momentum are among the trends highlighted for VC in 2024

5. **Global Venture Capital Outlook: The Latest Trends | Bain & Company**: Covers a broad range of industries and the impact on venture capital funding

6. **4 Important Venture Capital Trends (2024-2026) | Exploding Topics**: Explores equity crowdfunding platforms like WeFunder and StartEngine, highlighting their growth and impact on the startup funding landscape

7. **Venture capital market to seek new floor in 2024 | EY - US**: Provides insights into the economic headwinds impacting investor appetite and the outlook for the VC market in 2024

8. **5 Venture Capital Trends to Watch in 2024 | Coresignal**: Discusses portfolio diversification and the role of cryptocurrency in VC trends

9. **Top 4 Trends in Venture Capital for 2024 | Allvue Systems**: Highlights the opportunities in the European VC market and the ongoing interest in AI and biotech startups

10. **2024 Trends in Venture Capital | Deloitte US**: Offers a perspective on the state of the IPO market, with AI as a potential catalyst for change