
Life Science Success
On this podcast, you'll find interviews with high-performing successful individuals in Life Sciences. On a weekly basis, we cover their proven methods, principles, strategies, and mindsets to implement new technologies that scale to meet the needs of people in our world.
Latest episodes

Jun 16, 2024 • 32min
Revolutionizing Neuropsychiatry: Dr. Sam Clark Therapeutics and Innovation
Send us a textIn this episode of Life Science Success, host Don interviews Dr. Sam Clark, founder and CEO of Terran Biosciences. They talk about Dr. Clark's innovative approach to creating new neuropsychiatric therapeutics and how his personal experiences with mental illness inspired him to enter the biotech industry. The episode also explores various breakthroughs at Terran, including their innovative work with prodrugs, anti-psychotics, and psychedelics, along with their unique, efficient team structure modeled after Silicon Valley tech companies. Additionally, they delve into the inspiration, challenges, and methodologies that drive Terran's mission to provide affordable and modern treatments for patients in need. 00:00 Introduction to Life Science Success Podcast 00:40 Sponsor Message from D3 Digital Media Marketing 01:21 Guest Introduction: Dr. Sam Clark 02:12 Dr. Clark's Journey into Biotech 04:15 Founding Terran Biosciences 07:13 Innovative Projects at Terran 13:00 Psychedelic Compounds and Patient Use 20:00 Overcoming Barriers in Drug Development 23:57 Leadership and Inspiration 31:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jun 16, 2024 • 37min
Life Science Success with Vance Lyon: From Chemistry to Pharma Innovation
Send us a textIn this episode of Life Science Success, host Don interviews Vance Lyon, an accomplished chemist with a four-decade career in the life sciences industry. Vance discusses his educational background, career journey, and key experiences. The conversation also delves into the vital role of Davos Pharma in providing comprehensive services for biotech companies, including API production, formulation, and IND filings. Vance shares insights on leadership, his inspirations, and concerns, while reflecting on his contributions to significant pharmaceutical projects. Join us for an engaging discussion on life sciences, chemistry, and the intricacies of pharmaceutical development. 00:00 Introduction to Life Science Success Podcast 00:39 Sponsor Message: D3 Digital Media Marketing 01:22 Meet Vance Lyon: A Journey in Chemistry 02:27 Early Life and Education 07:22 Career Beginnings at Parish Chemical 11:08 Transition to Kemmerer Polytech 12:57 Joining Davos and Key Projects 16:06 Services Provided by Davos 27:34 Leadership and Personal Insights 35:52 Conclusion and Farewell

Jun 11, 2024 • 12min
Dr. William Chou on Gene Therapy for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Send us a textIn this episode of the Life Science Success Podcast, host Don Davis, PhD, MBA, interviews Dr. William Chou of Passage Bio. Dr. Chou discusses his transition from a practicing physician to a leader in biotechnology, reflects on the profound patient relationships he misses, and shares insights into Passage Bio's work on gene therapy for neurodegenerative diseases like Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). They delve into the progress of their Phase 1/2 clinical study, the urgency of developing treatments for genetic mutations, and the potential impact on patients and their families. Learn about the most recent developments and how Passage Bio is working to give those suffering from these life-threatening conditions hope. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:25 William's Journey into Life Sciences 01:30 The Emotional Impact of Leaving Clinical Practice 02:31 Overview of Passage Bio 02:52 Understanding Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) 06:38 Current Progress and Future Prospects 10:04 The Urgency and Hope for FTD Treatments 11:37 Goals and Closing Remarks

Jun 11, 2024 • 10min
Revolutionizing Gene Therapy with Igor Fisch CEO of NewBiologix
Send us a textIn this episode of the Life Science Success Podcast, Don Davis PhD, MBA interviews Igor Fisch, founder of NewBiologix. Igor shares his journey from academia to entrepreneurship, highlighting his success with Selexis, a company he sold in 2017 that specialized in monoclonal antibodies. He discusses the challenges of gene therapy, specifically the high costs, and NewBiologix's innovative approach to making gene therapy more affordable. Igor also provides insights into the industry's future, emphasizing the significance of stable production platforms for viral particles. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:15 Igor's Journey into Life Sciences 00:37 The Success of Selexis 00:56 Transition to Gene Therapy 03:32 Challenges in Gene Therapy 03:50 The Importance of Stable Platforms 05:11 The Role of Biotech Startups 05:57 Balancing Science and Business 06:51 Networking at BIO Conference 08:14 Future Vision for New Biologics 09:21 Conclusion and Farewell

Jun 9, 2024 • 11min
Exploring Neuroprotective Drugs with Dean Petkanas CEO of Kannalife Sciences
Send us a text In this episode of the Life Science Success Podcast, Dean Petkanas, co-founder of Kannalife Sciences, is interviewed at the Bio International Convention in San Diego. Dean shares his journey from investment banking in the 80s to founding Kannalife Sciences in 2009. He discusses the company's focus on developing cannabinoid-based drugs, specifically targeting chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in cannabinoid drug development, the importance of targeting specific types of pain, and the current state and future prospects of Kannalife Sciences. Dean also highlights the significance of partnering and collaboration in advancing novel therapeutics. 00:00 Welcome to the Life Science Success Podcast 00:20 Dean's Journey into Life Sciences 01:04 The Evolution of Kannalife Sciences 02:18 Challenges and Opportunities in Cannabinoid-Based Drugs 03:06 Understanding Pain and Neuropathy 06:08 Investment Insights and Market Trends 07:40 Kannalife Sciences's Current Focus and Future Prospects 10:02 The Importance of Partnering at Bio 11:02 Closing Remarks and Future Meetings

Jun 9, 2024 • 19min
Revolutionizing Lung Disease Treatment with Evoke Nano's CEO Sean Rothwell
Send us a textIn this episode of the Life Science Success Podcast, host Don interviews Sean Rothwell, CEO of Evoke Nano, about the company's groundbreaking work in developing EBQ218, a revolutionary nanoparticle-based pulmonary therapeutic. They discuss the efficacy of EBQ218 in treating cystic fibrosis and its potential as a broad-spectrum antibiotic against drug-resistant superbugs. Sean shares insights into the company's journey, their upcoming clinical trials, and the broader impact of their work on patient outcomes in the healthcare landscape. Tune in to learn how Evoke Bio is poised to make a significant difference in combating infectious diseases and improving lives. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:09 First Impressions of BIO Conference 00:37 Sean's Background and Journey into Life Sciences 01:42 The Science Behind Evoke Nano 02:28 EBQ218: A Revolutionary Pulmonary Therapeutic 04:16 Challenges and Future Pathways 05:24 Investment and Partnership Opportunities 06:42 Broader Applications and Future Vision 08:16 Addressing Drug Resistance and Regulatory Pathways 18:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jun 9, 2024 • 20min
Virtual Human Twins: Revolutionizing Drug and Device Testing | Elem Biotech Pt2
Send us a textThis is the second part of the interview where, with Maruiano, we will discuss more of the technology and development for Elem Biotech. In this episode of the Life Science Success Podcast, Don Davis discusses the BIO conference and the future of biomedical research with Mauriano Vázquez. They delve into the significance of networking events, the evolution of computing capabilities, advanced simulation codes, and the potential applications of AI and quantum computing in life sciences. Mauriano shares his unique journey from Argentina to becoming a physicist specializing in computational mechanics, and how his work in cardiac electrophysiology can significantly impact patient care. The conversation wraps up with insights into the future use of virtual and augmented reality in medical applications. 00:00 Introduction and Conference Impressions 02:37 Mariano's Background and Journey into Life Sciences 06:22 Applications of Simulation Technology 10:48 Evolution of Computing Capabilities 13:37 Future of AI and Quantum Computing 14:41 Virtual Reality in Medical Applications 19:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jun 9, 2024 • 27min
Virtual Human Twins: Revolutionizing Drug and Device Testing | Elem Biotech Pt1
Send us a textThere are two parts of this interview, in the first session, I dive into Elem and what the company is doing with Christopher Morton. In this exciting episode of Life Science Discussed Podcast, host Don Davis welcomes Christopher Morton, CEO of Elem Biotech, to talk about the groundbreaking work of virtual human twins in drug and medical device testing. Morton, an aeronautical engineer turned biotech innovator, discusses Elem's platform that allows pharmaceutical companies, medtechs, and CROs to test new therapeutics using virtual human models instead of animal models. They delve into how this approach, distinct from AI-based methods, focuses on mechanistic modeling using MRIs and CT scans to replicate human physiological functions. Morton explains how Elem Biotech's solutions help in precision medicine, clinical trial design, and reducing animal trials, supported by supercomputing power and cloud technology. Tune in to discover how virtual human models are poised to transform life sciences and medical testing. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:43 Christopher Morton's Background 01:57 Introduction to Elem Biotech 02:45 Mechanistic Approach vs. AI Models 03:47 Precision Medicine and Virtual Human Twins 08:58 Supercomputing and Technological Infrastructure 13:07 Applications in Pharma and Medical Devices 21:07 Challenges and Future Directions 25:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jun 9, 2024 • 20min
Breaking Barriers in Pain Management and ADHD Treatment with Tris Pharma James Hackworth
Send us a text In this episode of the Lifescience Success Podcast, host Don Davis interviews James Hackworth, who shares insights about his background in physics and his journey into the life science industry. James discusses his experiences from McKinsey up to his current role at Tris Pharma, focusing on their innovative drug development and formulation technologies. He dives into the company's advancements in ADHD medications and an exciting new pain management drugs. Additionally, the conversation highlights the importance of partnerships, technology in drug development, and future industry trends. James provides a fascinating glimpse into the complexities and future of pharmaceuticals. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:08 Impressions of the Bio Conference 00:42 James' Background and Journey into Pharma 03:17 Formation and Growth of Park Therapeutics 04:20 Overview of Tris Pharma 04:41 Tris Pharma's Focus and Innovations 08:00 Challenges and Opportunities in Partnering 10:58 Future of Tris Pharma and the Industry 15:41 In-depth Look at Drugs that are progressing 19:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jun 9, 2024 • 6min
Innovating Biotech: Enzine's Continuous Manufacturing Platform with Himanshu Gadgil
Send us a text In this episode of the Life Science Success Podcast, Don interviews Himanshu Gadgil from Enzine during Bio International. Himanshu explains Enzine’s dual focus on developing biosimilars and their role as a CDMO with a game-changing platform, Enzine X. They discuss how Enzine's continuous manufacturing technology significantly cuts costs and speeds up market access for clients. Himanshu also talks about Enzine’s global presence, clientele, and their future plans for expansion in the U.S. and India. Tune in to learn about the innovative approaches Enzine is bringing to the biotech industry. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:07 Overview of Enzine Biotech 00:26 Enzine's Unique Manufacturing Platform 01:08 Clientele and Market Reach 01:41 Timelines and Efficiency 02:08 Future of Continuous Manufacturing 04:22 Geographical Expansion and Workforce 05:02 Enzine's Differentiators 06:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts