IDEA Collider: Innovation & Asymmetric Learning in Pharma

In this episode of IDEA Collider, hosts Mike and Rick revisit a pivotal project from over a decade ago, the Reblozyl project, undertaken in collaboration with Acceleron and Celgene. Rick, the head of Growth and Innovation at IDEA, reminisces about the early days leading to the successful positioning and market shaping of luspatercept across different hematological indications. The episode features insightful contributions from Robin, Jane, and Tracy, key players from Acceleron and Celgene, who share their experiences and the collaborative efforts that enabled them to redefine the market. The discussion covers the strategic approach to overcoming competitive benchmarking, the importance of a unified messaging strategy, and the critical role of internal and external collaboration. They also reflect on the impact of their efforts on the lives of many patients and offer advice for future teams working on complex drug development projects. The episode concludes with a recognition of the rare and valuable collaborative human elements that drove the success of the Reblozyl project.Episode Timestamps;00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:27 Rick's Background and Project Overview02:31 Client Team Introductions05:32 Collaboration and Challenges13:29 Defining the Mechanism and Market Positioning23:52 Communication and Alignment27:48 Navigating Internal and External Communication33:15 Launch, Reflections, and Lessons Learned41:14 Final Thoughts and Acknowledgements Keep up with the guests;Robyn Blackburn  - Director Global Commercial Strategy CAR-T at Kite Pharmahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-blackburn-805b8b13/Jayne Butler - Director of Strategic Initiatives at Fingerpaint Brandinghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jaynebutler/Tracey Sacco - Former SVP Global Strategic Marketing at Acceleronhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tracey-sacco-53 2a034/Rick Ritacco - Head of Growth and Innovationhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rritacco/ Follow Mike Rea On;Website: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/X: https://x.com/ideapharmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/

In this episode of IDEA Collider, host Mike Rea speaks with Dr. Sekar Kathiresan, founder of Verve Therapeutics and now part of Eli Lilly, about one of the boldest ideas in modern medicine: using one-time gene editing to permanently lower cholesterol and prevent heart disease.Dr. Kathiresan shares his journey from immigrant upbringing to Harvard cardiologist, genetic researcher, biotech founder, and now leader inside a global pharmaceutical company. The conversation explores how human genetics, CRISPR base editing, lipid nanoparticle delivery, and asymmetric learning converged to create a potential lifelong solution to cardiovascular disease.They also dive deep into the ethics of gene editing, global access and pricing, early intervention versus chronic care, FDA regulatory challenges, and what the Verve–Lilly acquisition means for the future of cardiometabolic medicine.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in biotech innovation, gene therapy, cardiovascular disease, and the future of preventive medicine. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:16 Sekar Kathiresan's Early Life and Education03:19 Founding Verve and Transition to Entrepreneurship05:35 The Science Behind Verve's Mission10:27 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Gene Editing20:05 Regulatory Hurdles and First Human Trials25:11 Ethical Considerations in Gene Editing27:06 Introduction to Drug Delivery and Ethical Considerations27:51 Historical Context and Pioneers in Medical Procedures28:35 Commercial and Ethical Challenges in Medicine29:32 Innovations in Cardiovascular Treatments32:49 The Role of Gene Editing in Long-term Health37:55 Strategic Partnerships and Industry Insights45:08 Reflections on the US Medical Ecosystem48:54 Conclusion and Future Outlook Keep up with Sekar Kathiresan;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sekar-sek-kathiresan-3501846/Website: https://www.lilly.com/ Follow Mike Rea On;Website: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/X: https://x.com/ideapharmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/ 

In a captivating discussion, Alex Telford, a biotech founder and co-founder of Convoke Bio, shares insights from his journey in drug development. He explores how AI and language models can revolutionize pharmaceutical workflows, tackling inefficiencies in clinical practices. Telford highlights the significance of data management and the role of emerging AI technologies in drug discovery. He also delves into China’s growing influence in biotech and the challenges of understanding neuroscience. Expect a thought-provoking conversation on the future of biopharma!

In this episode of Idea Collider, host Mike Rea interviews Dr. Christian Rommel from Bayer. Dr. Rommel discusses his journey in molecular oncology from the Max Planck Institute, through roles at Roche, to overseeing global R&D at Bayer. He shares insights on turning scientific discovery into novel medicines, collaboration between scientists and commercial teams, and the importance of maintaining scientific integrity. Dr. Rommel also delves into the impact of AI in drug development, the potential of genetic medicines, and the complexities of launching new medicines on a global scale. The conversation also touches on embracing failure, internal and external partnerships, and the evolving landscape of clinical translation. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:25 Christian Rommel's Journey in Oncology03:02 The Importance of Collaboration in Innovation05:16 Balancing Risk and Reward in Drug Development18:07 The Role of AI and Data in Modern R&D22:33 Partnerships and External Learning26:16 Balancing Legacy and Innovation in Biotech27:18 Global Expansion and Leadership Diversity27:27 Courage in Biotech Management27:54 Inspiration from Roche Genentech30:26 Commitment to Product Supply and Market Readiness32:23 Challenges of Global Launches35:53 Emerging Trends in Pharma: AI and Genetic Medicines42:20 Decision-Making in Pharma47:30 Reflections on Academic and Professional Journey Don't forget to Like, Share, Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Keep up with Christian Rommel;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-rommel/Website: https://www.bayer.com/en/innovation/science-research-and-innovation Follow Mike Rea On;Website: https://www.ideapharma.com/X: https://x.com/ideapharmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/ 

In this insightful episode of IDEA Collider, Mike welcomes Mathai Mammen, Chairman and CEO of Parabilis Medicines. Mathai shares his extensive journey through academia, MD PhD program at Harvard, co-founding Theravance, and leadership roles at Merck and J&J. They delve into Mathai's innovative approach to creating transformative medicines, navigating the biotech industry, and the unique challenges of targeting 'undruggable' proteins. They also discuss the role of AI in drug discovery, the importance of strategic risk, and fostering team resilience and spirit in both large and small pharma companies. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background00:56 Founding Thebans and Career Highlights01:43 Leadership at Merck and J&J02:18 Innovative Approaches at Parabilis Medicines04:09 Defining and Tackling Undruggable Targets09:27 Multivalent Drug Design and Bispecifics13:53 AI and Data Science in Drug Development19:28 Building and Leading World-Class Teams25:41 The Importance of Holding Conviction as an Entrepreneur26:25 Learning from Setbacks in the Biotech Industry30:10 Challenges and Innovations in Drug Development32:28 Navigating the Ups and Downs of the Biotech Industry36:02 The Mission and Future of Parabilis40:35 Personal Reflections and Advice for Entrepreneurs46:46 Book Recommendations and Closing Thoughts Don't forget to Like, Share, Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Keep up with Mathai Mammen;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathai-mammen/Website: https://parabilismed.com/ Follow Mike Rea On;Website: https://www.ideapharma.com/X: https://x.com/ideapharmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/ 

In this episode of Idea Collider, host Mike Rea interviews Paul Peter Tak, CEO of Candel Therapeutics, discussing his remarkable journey from a clinician in Amsterdam to leading cutting-edge biotech companies. Paul shares pivotal moments in his career, the challenges of transitioning from academia to big pharma, and the innovative principles he applied. He dives deep into Candel’s promising work in viral immunotherapies for cancers and the unique leadership and management philosophies that have guided his journey. Additionally, Paul Peter touches on his passion for leveraging collective intelligence and his unconventional hobbies that keep him grounded and creative. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:59 Early Career and Passion for Medicine02:09 Transition to Industry and GSK Experience04:50 Building Successful Organizations07:42 Innovative Models in Pharma19:03 Joining Candel Therapeutics and Vision for the Future25:15 Transforming Cancer Treatment27:24 Challenges in Biotech Market28:45 Strategic Decisions and Prioritization31:39 Collaborations and External Partnerships33:07 Innovative Approaches and Future Prospects44:23 Leadership and Personal Insights Don't forget to Like, Share, Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Keep up with Paul Peter Tak;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-peter-tak-md-phd-fmedsci-1b44749/ Follow Mike Rea On;Website: https://www.ideapharma.com/X: https://x.com/ideapharmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/ 

In this episode of Idea Collider, we sit down with Susan Galbraith from AstraZeneca, a leading figure in oncology R&D. Susan shares her journey from medical training in Manchester and Cambridge to spearheading transformative cancer treatments at AstraZeneca. She discusses pivotal moments in her career, AstraZeneca's vision for eliminating cancer as a cause of death, the role of patient stories in motivating R&D efforts, and the integration of emerging technologies like AI and digital health tools.  With a focus on collaboration and continuous learning, Susan provides insights into how successful oncology drugs are developed and the importance of equitable representation in clinical trials. Stay tuned for an engaging conversation that highlights the future of personalized cancer therapies and the collaborative efforts driving innovations in oncology.Chapter Summaries;00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:27 Susan Galbraith's Career Journey02:37 Defining Success in Oncology R&D05:01 Early Phase Drug Development07:09 Digital Health and Patient Experience12:37 Global Collaboration and Innovation15:05 AI and Future of Oncology28:08 Diversity and Inclusion in Clinical Trials33:46 Mentorship and Career Advice37:45 Challenges and Future Outlook in Oncology42:06 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Don't forget to Like, Share, Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Keep up with Susan Gabraith;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-galbraith-584a195/?originalSubdomain=uk Follow Mike Rea On;Website: https://www.ideapharma.com/X: https://x.com/ideapharmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/

In this episode of IDEA Collider, we dive into the world of biotech innovation with John Maraganore, former CEO of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. Recognized as a trailblazer, John transformed RNA interference from a scientific concept into a revolutionary class of medicines, leading the development of five life-changing drugs. Join us as we explore John's journey from a first-generation American with Greek immigrant parents to a key figure in biomedicine. We'll discuss his education at the University of Chicago, his leadership role at Alnylam, drug delivery challenges for RNAi therapeutics, and the importance of strategic pharmaceutical alliances. John also shares his take on the current biotech environment, the impact of policy and regulation, and the promising future of genetic medicines and AI in drug discovery. Chapter Summaries;00:00 Introduction to John Maraganore: Biotech Trailblazer01:11 John's Early Life and Education03:09 Joining Alnylam and the RNAi Revolution04:56 Challenges and Successes at Alnylam06:47 Current Biotech Funding Environment08:17 Global Competition and US Leadership in Biotech10:25 The Importance of In-Person Collaboration12:01 Overcoming Drug Delivery Hurdles15:21 Maintaining an Entrepreneurial Spirit in Biotech17:00 Balancing Science and Business in Decision Making20:27 Strategic Partnerships in Biotech23:36 The Role of Biotech in Global Challenges26:25 Advocating for Policy Changes in Biotech30:41 Mentoring the Next Generation of Biotech Leaders32:35 Future Frontiers in Biotech Innovation36:08 John's Vision for the Future of Biomedicine37:18 Communicating Innovation and LeadershipDon't forget to Like, Share, Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Keep up with John Maraganore;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-maraganore/ Follow Mike Rea On;Website: https://www.ideapharma.com/X: https://x.com/ideapharmaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://ideacollider.simplecast.com/ 

COO of IDEA Pharma, Jacqueline Barendregt, and Exploristics Founder & CEO Aiden Flynn discuss optimizing clinical success, leveraging simulation for decision-making, early integration of statistical considerations in trial design, data-driven strategies in the pharmaceutical industry, and innovative approaches to clinical trial design to improve success rates and R&D efficiency.

Welcome to another episode of Idea Collider with your host, Mike Rea. In this engaging conversation, we delve into the world of pharmaceutical innovation and collaboration. Our guest, Dr. Nedim Pipic, a pharmaceutical expert specializing in mental and retinal health, shares his journey and passion for making a difference. Join us as we explore the unmet needs in these areas, the power of hybrid approaches and precision psychiatry, and the integration of digital therapeutics. Discover how the industry is transforming lives through innovation while remaining patient-centric. With insights into measuring development quality, the advantages of being a private company, and the importance of collaboration, this episode will inspire you to embrace change and drive positive outcomes in the pharmaceutical landscape. Tune in to Idea Collider today and be part of the movement toward a healthier, sustainable, and equitable future. Chapter Summaries [0:00:21] Introduction to today's guest, Dr. Nedim Pipic [0:04:23] Discussion on Innovation and Growth Mindset [0:06:44] Innovation and Patient Benefit in the Pharmaceutical Industry: A Discussion on the Importance of Return on Invention and Understanding Unmet Needs in Mental Health [0:08:25] Innovating Mental Health: A Discussion on Precision Psychiatry and Unmet Patient Needs [0:14:39] A Discussion on Precision Medicine and the Importance of Understanding Neurobiology in Addressing Symptoms [0:16:39] Driving Innovation in Pharma: Importance of Early Research Collaborations and Agile Culture [0:18:52] Discussion on Innovation and R&D in Pharmaceutical Industry [0:20:22] Driving Innovation and Culture in a Private Pharmaceutical Company [0:23:41] Insights on Innovation and Transformation [0:25:46] The Importance of Seeking Inspiration Outside of the Pharma Industry: A Conversation on AI and Agile Transformation [0:27:04] A Discussion on the Intersection of Medicine and Business in Pharmaceutical Innovation [0:33:28] Discussion on the Future of the Pharma and Biotech Industry and the Importance of Innovation and Collaboration [0:36:06] The Future of the Pharma Industry: Collaboration, Patient Empowerment, and Sustainability [0:37:39] Closing Remarks Don't forget to Like, Share, Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Keep up with Dr. Nedim Pipic; ● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nedim-pip... ● Website: http://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com Follow Mike Rea On; ● Website: https://www.ideapharma.com/ ● Twitter: https://twitter.com/ideapharma ● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bigidea/ Listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://podcast.ideapharma.com/ Don’t forget to Subscribe, Rate, Review, Like, and Share! To listen to more fantastic podcast episodes: https://podcast.ideapharma.com/