Economist Podcasts

Out for blood: the Theranos trial

Sep 1, 2021
Tom Easton, The Economist's American business editor, joins Hal Hodson, the technology correspondent, to dive into the Theranos trial and the unraveling of Elizabeth Holmes' blood-testing startup. They discuss the initial hype around Theranos, the legal battles that revealed the truth, and what this means for female entrepreneurs and the tech industry. They also explore the contrasting animal research practices emerging between the West and East Asia, focusing on the ethical quandaries of primate research and the implications for future biomedical practices.
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ANECDOTE

The Rise and Fall of Theranos

  • Elizabeth Holmes, Theranos founder, faced trial for fraud.
  • Her blood-testing startup garnered billions in valuation before collapsing.
INSIGHT

Culture of Silence at Theranos

  • Theranos's failure stemmed from internal doubts about the product's efficacy.
  • Aggressive legal tactics and NDAs silenced dissenters.
INSIGHT

Charisma Over Science

  • Holmes's charisma and articulation captivated investors and the media.
  • This masked the lack of scientific understanding among stakeholders.
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