

Grow Everything Biotech Podcast
Messaginglab
Grow Everything reveals the world of biology as technology. Hosts Erum Khan and Karl Schmieder interview leaders and influencers biologizing industries with tools like synthetic biology, precision fermentation, bioprospecting, and more. These companies make biomaterials from waste, cosmetics that restore healthy hair and skin, and delicious cultivated foods in a bioreactor and so much more. Join us as we discuss the latest and greatest across biotech, synbio, entrepreneurship, and culture and how this transition is solving healthcare and climate change challenges.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 15, 2023 • 60min
42. An Algae-nius Solution to Big Textile with Keel Lab’s Tessa Callaghan
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum sit down with the Co-Founder and CEO of Keel Labs, Tessa Callaghan, diving deep into a world where personal memories intertwine with global challenges. From the nostalgic streets of Switzerland to the pressing concerns of the Pacific garbage patch, the trio embarks on a journey that touches on the intricacies of fashion fibers and the innovations shaping our future. As they celebrate the legacy of community biotech labs and explore the bustling bioeconomy showcases, Tessa's unique insights add a fresh layer to the conversation. Tune in for a blend of heartfelt stories, expert perspectives, and a glimpse into tomorrow's solutions.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - Beginning Insights: Business Design in the Biotech World
00:05:48 - Journey Through Iran, Brazil, and Switzerland: Tessa's Global Perspectives
00:07:47 - Nostalgic Streets: Karl's Swiss Adventures
00:13:21 - Marrying Design & Biotech: Navigating the World of Bio Design
00:20:25 - Crafting a Brand: The Art of Naming for Startups
00:23:53 - Kelson's Breakthrough in the Textile Realm
00:26:15 - Revolutionizing Textiles: Kelson's Eco-Friendly Yarn Solutions
00:30:21 - Weighing the Pros & Cons: Using Alternative Wool Materials
00:34:16 - Embracing Open Doors: The Need for Collaboration in Biotech
00:38:51 - Pioneering Sustainable Dye Systems: A Collaborative Approach
00:42:24 - The Spirit of Innovation: Where Collaboration Meets Inspiration
00:46:47 - Reflecting on "Wind Up Girl": Globalization's Impact on Society & Tech
00:50:16 - Staying Nimble: Valuing Flexibility & Sustainability in Biotech Innovations
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
Keel Labs
Sabriya Stukes episode
BioDesign Challenge
ValleyDAO
Book Recommendations:
Windup Girl
Nine Lies About Work
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Sep 8, 2023 • 1h 7min
41. From Spinal Taps To Cellular Apps: Programming Life With Mark Kotter
Episode Description:
We get into the innovative world of cellular programming, exploring its potential in revolutionizing meat production with companies like Meatable at the forefront. We also touch upon the controversial Oxycontin epidemic, shedding light on Purdue Pharmaceuticals' aggressive marketing strategies. Mark Kotter, offers invaluable insights into the transformative work at Bit Bio, bridging the gap between fundamental science and real-world applications. Join us for a journey that spans from the intricacies of stem cells to the broader implications on society.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Introduction:From Spinal Taps To Cellular Apps: Programming Life
00:06:42 Future of Biotech: Collaborative Ventures Between Giants Like Ginko and Google
00:11:33 The Cutting Edge: Mark Kotter on Microbiome, Cellular and Gene Therapies
00:13:58 Journey of Innovation: Transitioning from Neurosurgery to Biotech Entrepreneurship
00:19:39 Harnessing the Power of Genes: Unlocking Brain Cell Creation in Synthetic Biology
00:25:19 Solving the Drug Discovery Enigma: Addressing Challenges in Alzheimer's Research
00:27:31 Revolutionizing Pharma: Bit Bio's Innovative Cellular Models
00:34:20 Exploring Two X Technology: Advancements in Stem Cell Differentiation
00:39:33 Feeding the Future: The Promise of Stem Cells in Sustainable Meat Production
00:44:07 Safe Genetic Editing: Understanding Genomic Safe Harbors
00:49:03 Reviving the Past: Can Stem Cells Resurrect Extinct Species?
00:52:00 Decoding Aging: The Role of Epigenetic Noise in Cellular Lifespans
00:54:40 Turning Back the Clock: Stem Cell Strategies for Rejuvenation
01:01:20 The Oxycontin Debate: Exploring Pain Management Concerns from a Listener's Viewpoint
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
Twitter
Bit Bio
Clock.Bio
Meatable
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Sep 1, 2023 • 32min
40. Moon Landings, Forever Chemicals, and Hogfish Skin: Erum & Karl’s Labor Day Bio Bonanza!
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum dive into the fascinating world of biotechnology and explore the endless possibilities that biology offers. From leveraging unique biochemical processes found in animals and microbes to developing adaptive sunscreen and innovative applications, we uncover how biology can enhance our daily lives. We also discuss the recent advancements in space research and the potential of organ-on-a-chip technology. Join us as we unlock the power of biology and discover the exciting frontiers of biotech.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Introduction to the Wonders of Biotechnology
00:02:03 Delving Deep: The Boundless Potential of Biology in Modern Tech
00:08:15 Space Research and Biotech: India's Pioneering Advances
00:13:05 Environmental Interactions: How Biology Responds to External Factors
00:18:27 The Marvel of Hog Fish Skin: Nature's Camouflage at its Best
00:20:43 Enhancing Daily Life: Bio-Innovations in Beauty and Personal Care
00:25:27 The Microscopic World: Innovative Applications of Organ-on-a-Chip Technology
Episode Links:
‘India Is on the Moon’: Lander’s Success Moves Nation to Next Space Chapter (NYT)
Forever Chemicals are Everywhere. What Are They Doing to Us? (NYT Mag)
Hogfish ‘See’ With Their Skin, Even When They’re Dead (NYT)
Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
Genspace Party Invitation - Text us for a discount code! (804) 505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Aug 25, 2023 • 1h 2min
39. From Microbe to Unicorn: IndieBio's Sabriya Stukes on the Journey of Biotech Startups
Episode Description:
We dive deep into the fascinating intersection of science fiction and real-world innovation. Sabriya Stukes, shares her journey from a microbiologist researching tuberculosis and HIV to the fast-paced world of startups and business. We explore the "Science Fiction Idea Bank," a reservoir of futuristic concepts that have inspired today's technological advancements. From artificial silk to the societal implications of fictional drugs, this episode is a testament to the power of imagination and its role in shaping our reality.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Introduction: The Intersection of Science Fiction and Biotech Innovation
00:01:20 The "Science Fiction Idea Bank": Fueling Today's Technological Breakthroughs
00:05:32 How Sci-fi Visions Pave the Way for Startup Innovations
00:09:20 Biotech Wonders: From Imaginary Implants to Performance-enhancing Drugs
00:11:41 Sabriya Stukes: From Microbiologist to Startup Success
00:14:23 Indie Bio's Mission: Molding Scientists into Savvy Entrepreneurs
00:21:28 Weighing Career Paths: Scientist vs. Entrepreneur
00:24:14 Merging Worlds: Introducing Business Acumen to Scientific Endeavors
00:27:58 Evaluating Biotech Startups: The Thrills and Complexities
00:30:22 Key Elements of Biotech Success: Funding and Market Needs
00:33:46 Winning Over Investors: The Art of Storytelling in Biotech
00:35:09 Crafting a Biotech Venture: Passion and Effective Communication
00:41:00 Merging Business and Science: A Comprehensive Approach to Startup Analysis
00:49:31 Community's Role in Nurturing and Supporting Biotech Ventures
00:51:03 From Small Victories to Major Breakthroughs: A Glimpse into Startup Growth
00:52:06 Celebrating Milestones: Achievements in a Biotech Food Program
00:55:22 Indie Bio's Legacy: Leading Investor in Promising Biotech Startups
01:00:05 Networking and Crafting a Compelling Biotech Investment Narrative
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
IndieBio
Twitter
Instagram
SOSV
Not Boring SciFi Idea Bank
Technovelgy.com
Captagon: the drug fuelling the Gulf party scene - and Syria's finances
AIMA - CBD period pain relief
Nukoko- cocoa free chocolate
Climate Capital on what founders needs
Call or Text the Grow Everything Hotline: +1 804-505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

21 snips
Aug 18, 2023 • 1h 11min
38. Back From The Dead And Ready To Party: Passenger Pigeons, De-extinction, & Cloning with Revive & Restore's Ben Novak
Ben Novak, a conservation scientist at Revive & Restore, dives into the fascinating world of de-extinction and biotechnology for bird conservation. He unpacks the dramatic decline of the passenger pigeon, revealing its ecological significance and the innovative efforts to bring it back to life. The discussion covers biobanking in wildlife conservation and the ethical implications of reviving extinct species. Novak also highlights how biotechnology can help restore ecosystems impacted by climate change, offering a hopeful perspective on biodiversity's future.

Aug 11, 2023 • 31min
37. Biotech Business Stories, Dangerous Giveaways, and Cultivated Meat with Karl and Erum
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum discuss the mission of their podcast, Grow Everything, which aims to bring biotechnology into the mainstream and shed light on the impact of biotech innovations. They reflect on the inspiration behind starting the podcast and the importance of sharing conversations about biotech and science storytelling. Karl and Erum also provide updates on recent events and projects, such as teaching entrepreneurs how to tell their life science stories and attending an alternative protein potluck.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 The Mission and Passion for Biotech
00:01:15 Dive into the Inspiration Behind Grow Everything
00:04:53 The Crucial Role of Storytelling in Biotech Startups
00:08:46 Exciting Updates: From Teaching Life Science Narratives to Alt Protein Gatherings
00:12:29 Spotlight on Rebellious Foods: Winning with Plant-based Chicken Nuggets
00:13:50 The Evolving Landscape of Cultivated Meat and Plant-based Alternatives
00:16:25 A Glimpse into the Future: Rising Trends in Cultivated and Plant-based Foods
00:22:29 Biotech in Everyday Life: Synthetic Biology Picnic Experience
00:28:04 Tackling Challenges: Using Gene Drives Against Lantern Flies
Episode Links:
Chicken nugs
Synbio definition
Call or Text the Grow Everything Hotline: +1 804-505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

9 snips
Aug 4, 2023 • 56min
36. Pearl of Wisdom: Shaping Genomic Therapies & Community Research with Dr. Jocelynn Pearl
Episode Description:
Jocelynn Pearl, a life scientist, podcast host, and advocate for decentralized science, joins Karl and Erum to discuss the future of biotech and the exciting developments happening in the field. Jocelynn shares her experiences in gene editing, specifically with zinc fingers and TALENs, and how the advent of CRISPR has revolutionized the field. She also highlights the significance of epigenome editing and its potential for treating diseases. Jocelynn discusses the concept of decentralized science and its impact on scientific publishing and collaboration. They conclude with a discussion on the future of biotech, where advancements in therapeutics are expected to lead to significant improvements in patient care.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Discussing Climate Change and Lab-grown Food: Possible Relief for Global Farmers
00:01:24 Unpacking the Benefits and Common Concerns About Lab-grown Food
00:03:56 Addressing Antibiotics in Livestock and the Impact on Grocery Prices
00:05:10 Exploring the Disparity in Subsidies: The Overemphasis on Fossil Fuel and Highways Over Trains
00:07:26 The Promise of Maglev Trains and Quantum Computing: A Peek Into the Future
00:11:35 Bridging Biology and Technology: An Insight into Biotech Consulting
00:14:32 Speculations on Extraterrestrial Contact: Is It Around the Corner?
00:16:19 Women in Leadership: Reflecting on a Three-Year Journey of Empowering Narratives
00:19:48 The Advent of CRISPR: A Landmark in DNA Editing Revolution Since 2010
00:21:50 Unraveling the Role of Epigenome Editing in Disease Therapeutics
00:23:36 The Epigenetic Approach: Modulating Gene Expression Without DNA Cleavage
00:25:24 Enhancing Human Performance: The Untapped Potential of the Epigenome
00:27:14 The Metformin Study: A Crowdfunded Initiative to Understand Population-wide Effects
00:31:10 The Dawn of Decentralized Science: Envisioning the Future Beyond Regulatory Boundaries
00:33:28 Blockchain Meets Science: A Potential Upheaval in Scientific Publishing
00:37:34 Enhancing Drug Development with Advanced Computational Tools and Protein Structure Prediction
00:39:58 The Biotech Horizon: Predictions and Insights from an Industry Expert
00:42:05 The Rise of Targeted Therapeutics: A New Era in Drug Discovery
00:44:54 A Journey Through Time: Memorable Milestones in Challenging Scientific Careers
00:48:03 Jocelynn's Horticultural Hobby: A Deep Dive into House Plants and Avocado Trees
00:50:23 Seattle's Growing Oasis: Figs, Lavender, Vegetables, and Family Bonds
00:54:03 The 'Grow Everything' Hotline and the Passion for Green Living
Episode Links:
Jocelynn Pearl on LinkedIn
World Farmers’ Organization - Anti Lab-grown food statement
Northeast Maglev Trains
LabDAO
Lady Scientist Podcast
Tune Therapeutics
Venture City on Youtube - Mars timelapse
Astera Institute - Unblocking Scientific Publishing
Golden Age of Medicine - New York Times
“For Blood and Money: Billionaires, Biotech, and the Quest for a Blockbuster Drug” by Nathan Vardi.
Chasing My Cure by David Fajgenbaum
Call or Text the Grow Everything Hotline: +1 804-505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Jul 28, 2023 • 57min
35. Unlocking the Gene-ius of AI-Powered Biology: Teselagen's Eduardo Abeliuk
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum interview Eduardo Abeliuk, CEO and co-founder of Teselagen. Teselagen is a software-based automation platform for the biotech industry. Eduardo shares his background in computational biology and how it led him to create Teselagen. He explains how the platform helps biologists and engineers streamline the design, build, test, and learn cycle of biotech R&D. He also discusses the potential of AI in biotechnology and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Eduardo showcases his admiration for LanzaTech, a company using synthetic biology to convert waste gasses into sustainable fuels and chemicals. He concludes by highlighting the role of automation and AI in accelerating biotechnology and the future possibilities of decentralized systems in biotech.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Intersecting Worlds: Merging Science, Drama, Politics, and Passion
00:03:16 The Biotech Revolution: Emphasizing the Role of Lab-grown Meat in Environment Conservation
00:05:30 Innovative Quest: Exploring Adaptive Materials in Clothing
00:12:57 Harmony in Biotech: Balancing Computation and Laboratory Endeavors
00:15:29 Exploiting Latent Opportunities: Enhancing Organism Design with Automated Tools
00:22:28 Packaged Modules Appreciation: Enthusiasm for Startup Collaboration
00:28:27 Architecting the Future: Constructing a Cloud-Based Infrastructure for Biotech
00:31:29 Remote Resilience: The New Normal in Biotechnology
00:35:07 Driving Change in Biotech: Democratization and Collaboration
00:38:14 Biotech Battlegrounds: Evaluating Synthetic Biology Platforms
00:41:07 Modernizing Chip Design: Welcoming Electronic Design Automation
00:43:24 Biotech Impact: The Pursuit of Consumer-Centric Solutions
00:47:26 Unifying Strengths: Harnessing Convergence to Tackle Biotech Challenges
00:49:47 AI Meets Biotech: Chat GPT's Role in Cloud-Based Biotechnology
Episode Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardoabeliuk
Eduardo Abeliuk http://www.abeliuk.com/
TeselaGen: https://teselagen.com/
Call or Text the Grow Everything Hotline: +1 804-505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Jul 21, 2023 • 53min
34. Bugging Out with Josh Robinson: Cocoon Biosciences Metamorphic Journey
Episode Description:
In the latest Grow Everything podcast episode, hosts Karl and Erum explore the exciting world of biotechnology, sustainability, and healthcare with Josh Robinson, CEO of Cocoon Bioscience. The trio delve into the pivotal role of small-scale production in diverse sectors, such as semiconductors and biology, hinting at the revolutionary potential of MRNA vaccines that can be mass-produced using minimal enzyme, despite its significant cost. Robinson emphasizes the need for natural, innovative solutions like fermentation, known for yielding high-value molecules. He piques listeners' curiosity about Cocoon's future and the broader biotech landscape in the forthcoming 3 to 10 years. The conversation concludes with a book recommendation - Andy Weir's "Hail", a space-set fictional adventure sure to intrigue the audience of science enthusiasts, researchers, and professionals alike.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 GMOs: Unforeseen Impacts
00:01:51 Microbes: Turning Fruit Waste to Leather
00:05:18 Philadelphia Flooding: Lack of Preparedness
00:09:55 Cocoon Biosciences: Insects in Biotech Ecosystem
00:16:01 Enzyme Efficiency: Role of Folding and Glycosylation
00:17:38 Lab to Table: Cultivated Meat and Cocoon's Role
00:22:02 Bio Airport Facility: Upscaling Insect Rearing
00:27:14 Balancing Sustainability and Healthcare Access
00:34:01 Future of Cocoon and Biotech Industry
00:38:24 Book Recommendation: 'Hail' by Andy Weir
00:43:03 Navigating Spanish and Importance of Food Innovation
00:44:22 Next: Biotech Progress Discussion with Josh
00:51:25 Gratitude: Acknowledging Feedback and Engagement
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
Cocoon Bioscience
Algenex (Cocoon’s Tech Partner)
Pivot Bio
Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Successful Science Writing by Janice Matthews
Call or Text the Grow Everything Hotline: +1 804-505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Jul 14, 2023 • 1h 5min
33. Purple Reign, A Purple Tomato with a Genetic Twist, Nathan Pumplin of Norfolk Healthy Produce
Episode Description:
In this of the Grow Everything podcast, Karl and Erum sit down with Nathan Pumplin, a pioneer in the field of synthetic biology and food innovation. They delve into the fascinating world of genetically modified foods, with a special focus on a unique purple tomato. The conversation explores the intersection of biotechnology and agriculture, the challenges and opportunities of sustainable farming, and the role of culinary experiences in introducing new food products.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 A Cultural Exchange: Indian Wedding in Canada
00:03:15 Career Journeys and Dispelling GMO Myths
00:06:58 A Milestone: FDA Greenlights Norfolk's Purple Tomato
00:08:27 Risk Assessment: USDA, FDA, and EPA on Plant Pests
00:11:01 Behind the Scenes: The Regulatory Path of the Purple Tomato
00:13:33 Changing the Narrative in Agriculture
00:18:29 Educating the Public: Shifting GMO Perceptions
00:20:08 A Taste of Innovation: Positive Reception for Purple Tomato Salsa
00:24:39 Science in Action: Creating Purple Tomatoes
00:26:18 Biotech Breakthrough: Engineering Purple Tomatoes
00:30:05 Biodiversity: From Heirloom Tomatoes to Drug Discovery
00:33:05 Fun Fact: Is Tomato a Fruit or a Vegetable?
00:34:28 The Future of Groceries: Innovation in Shopping
00:38:06 Climate Change Response: Crop Diversity and Speed Breeding
00:40:50 Indoor Farming: The Rise of Controlled Environment Agriculture in California
00:45:46 Controlled Environment Agriculture: Challenges and Opportunities
00:49:12 A New Player: Non-GMO Mycelium Product Sparks Excitement
00:51:53 Trust in Labels: Ensuring Accuracy in Bioengineered Labels
00:55:53 Embracing Change: Innovating for a Sustainable Future
00:58:39 A Fresh Look at Biotech: Embracing the Biological Aspect of Technology
Episode Links:
Nathan Pumplin on LinkedIn
Norfolk Healthy Produce
NYT: Learning to Love GMOs
Call or Text the Grow Everything Hotline: +1 804-505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media


