#279- From Refugee to Marine to CEO: A Life of Service and Mission with Quang X. Pham

Jun 2, 2025

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In this powerful conversation, Andy Vasily sits down with Quang X. Pham, CEO of Katrina Therapeutics, to explore an extraordinary life journey spanning from Vietnam War refugee to Marine Corps pilot to biotech entrepreneur. Quang shares deeply personal stories about service, sacrifice, and the transformative power of embracing one's mission in life.

Quang X. Pham is the CEO of Katrina Therapeutics, where he's developing safer blood thinner medications. A former Marine Corps helicopter pilot who served during the Gulf War, Quang escaped Vietnam with his family in 1975 and has dedicated his life to serving his adopted country through military service and healthcare innovation. He's also a recent author and maintains an 11 handicap at Sawgrass Country Club.

Key Topics Discussed

Family Legacy and Service (4:41)

Quang's family's dramatic escape from Vietnam in 1975 - marking 50 years in America
The three pillars of his life: serving his new country, honoring family legacy, and contributing to healthcare
How gratitude shaped his decision to join the Marine Corps despite skepticism from others

Military Service and Leadership Lessons (28:04 - 42:44)

Gulf War Experiences: High-stakes decision-making as a helicopter pilot in Kuwait City
Navigating through smoke and enemy territory while evacuating wounded Marines
The critical importance of psychological safety in team environments
How military experience translates to entrepreneurial leadership

Entrepreneurship and Mission-Driven Leadership (47:33 - 55:31)

The role of tact in effective communication and fundraising
Understanding investor expectations and adapting pitch strategies
Balancing urgency in startups vs. consensus-building in larger organizations
Why patient needs must drive pharmaceutical development, regardless of economic challenges

Personal Philosophy and Mentorship (59:56)

Learning from mentors both personal and distant (John Wooden, General Colin Powell)
The importance of continuous self-reflection and growth
"Love what you do until you can do what you love" - navigating career transitions
How success encompasses resilience and character, not just financial achievement

Timestamps

4:41 - Opening and background discussion
28:04 - Decision to join the Marine Corps and embracing destiny
39:22 - Gulf War piloting experience and high-stress decision-making
42:44 - Leadership insights and psychological safety
47:33 - Entrepreneurship, tact, and resilience
55:31 - Core values and mission-driven approach
59:56 - Mentorship and personal growth philosophy

Connect with Quang X. Pham

Episode Themes

Immigrant experience and the American Dream
Military service as character formation
Translating military leadership to business success
Mission-driven entrepreneurship in healthcare
The power of mentorship and continuous learning
Resilience through life transitions