

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

Mar 10, 2023 • 51min
16. Getting Schooled with BioBuilder
In this episode of Grow Everything, Karl and Erum are joined by Natalie Kuldell to delve into the exciting world of bio companies and the importance of bridging the gap between the present and future. As the founders of BioBuilder, Natalie shares her expertise on how to inspire the next generation to love life science, and how plasmids can make working with DNA much easier. The discussion also touches on the fascinating topic of authentic research experiences that can spark interest in science and engineering. Additionally, they explore how high school graduates can be included in the bio processing industry without needing a PhD, and the factory floor-oriented jobs available. With insightful musings on different learning models, such as gym memberships and libraries, this episode concludes with the pressing need to prioritize high school biology education. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the future of bio companies and how to inspire young people!
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 here.
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 The Future Of Companies And The Popularity Of Cannabis
00:04:32 NYC: Hub For Finance And Biotech
00:07:51 From Uni To Kids: Teaching Synthetic Biology
00:09:35 The Power Of Curiosity: Exploring The World
00:11:21 Importance Of Bio Education In High Schools
00:12:45 Common Vocabulary In Bio Education
00:19:39 Mosquito Repellent Synthesized From Plasmids
00:21:06 Resilience And Curiosity In School Programs
00:23:18 Global Accessibility, Local Solutions In Biology
00:26:59 Community College And Work Training In Bio Jobs
00:28:39 Teach Bioinformatics To Address Workforce Shortage
00:31:23 Ideal Lab: Hands-on, Accessible Science Museum Exhibit
00:35:57 The Exciting Future Of Biotech And Synthetic Biology
00:39:31 Cautionary Tale: Bringing Back Woolly Mammoths
00:41:47 Data Gap In High School Science Education
00:44:04 Interview With Natalie And Lab Visit Invite
00:46:27 Idea Accelerator For Biology Product Development
Episode Links:
Natalie Kuldell on LinkedIn
BioBuilder
Jurassic Park: A Novel
GinkGo BioWorks
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

Mar 3, 2023 • 56min
15. Meet the Willy Wonka of Algae. Elliot Roth.
In this episode, Karl and Erum Azeez interview algae expert Elliot Roth on the potential uses of algae in bio manufacturing, as well as alternatives such as insects and cell-free systems. They discuss the problems of algal blooms and wastewater runoff, and the potential for using algae in various industries, including food coloring and cosmetics. Elliot shares his passion for experimenting with different types of algae and invites listeners to try out his lab in Culver City. They also touch on his interest in space and his company Spira, which focuses on solving basic needs using DIY biotech. Overall, this episode provides a fascinating look into the world of bio manufacturing and the potential uses of algae.
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 Accessible Science Communication: Exploring Bio Manufacturing and Bio Illiteracy
00:05:30 The Growing Popularity of Algae as a Nutritional Supplement and Biofuel Source
00:09:51 Sustainable Prepping with Algae-Based Protein
00:12:40 Lessons Learned from Failed Algae Companies: Avoiding Commodity Level Industries
00:14:52 The Diversity of Algae for Genetic Engineering and Holistic Diets
00:23:56 Algae: A Suitable Platform for Protein-Based Manufacturing and Fermentation
00:26:48 Investing in Toolsets for Non-Model Algal Species
00:30:58 Natural and Algae-Based Dyes as Alternatives to Artificial Dyes in Food Coloring
00:35:18 Lowering Prices and Leveraging Infrastructure in Synthetic Biology
00:39:41 Exploring the Potential of Algae Technology for Future Applications
00:43:47 DIY Algae Hair Dye Experiments Gone Wrong: A Cautionary Tale
00:45:41 Experimentation with Algae Products in a Los Angeles Lab
00:51:23 Algae King and Oceanography High School in New York City
00:53:04 Spirulina Powder and Its Exciting Applications
00:55:07 The Future of Manufacturing with Biology and Fermentation
Episode Links:
Elliot Roth on LinkedIn
Spira Website
Email Spira here info@spirainc.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

Feb 24, 2023 • 1h 13min
14. Cannabis & Biotech. Nuff Said.
Get ready to light up the conversation with finance expert Seth Yakatan as he spills the tea on the cannabis and biotech industries. Despite cannabis interest being at an all time high, the industry needs to weed out a ton of regulatory and technical hurdles. Join in as Seth shares how biotech is shaking things up in the cannabis world, from production to consumer goods. They'll also explore clinical trials and synthetic compounds, and highlight innovative companies and products. Get in the weeds on the future of bioengineering cannabis, and toke up some valuable insights.
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 Biology of Climate Change
00:01:06 Mild NYC Winter: Climate Change?
00:04:24 California and NY Legalize Cannabis
00:05:52 Life Sciences: A Family Influence
00:08:41 The Endocannabinoid System and Homeostasis
00:11:13 Epidiolex: Treating Epilepsy with Cannabis
00:13:59 Constraints in Cannabis Pharmaceutical Development
00:18:50 Tikkun Olam's Vehicle Strain: Phase Zero Testing
00:23:31 Constraints of the Cannabis Market
00:28:40 Synthetic Cannabis Production Attempts Fail
00:32:01 Exploring Compounds for Alternative Effects
00:36:44 Federal Change on Alcohol and Cannabis Regulation
00:41:19 Biotechnology and Cannabis: Novel Form Factors
00:43:07 Limited Capital for Biotech Companies
00:45:22 Biotech and Cannabis: Similarities and Opportunities
00:47:00 High-Quality Greenhouse Flower Production Profits
00:50:41 Investment in Canadian Cannabis by Pharmaceuticals and Tobacco
00:52:46 Consolidation in the Cannabis Beverage Industry
00:57:27 Factors in Industrial Cannabis Growth
00:59:29 Plant Engineering for Flavor Enhancement
01:02:26 Synthetic Biology and Cannabis Farming
01:07:17 Exploring Biotech Possibilities with Seth
Episode Links:
Seth on LinkedIn
Katan Associates
GW Pharmaceuticals
1906
CANN
Uncle Arnie's
Glass House Group
Forefront Ventures
Pacific Stone
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

Feb 17, 2023 • 48min
13. Waste Is A Failure of Imagination. Meet Nicole Richards of Allonia
Welcome to the latest episode of Grow Everything, where we take a deep dive into the fascinating world of soil health and the incredible power of engineering organisms. Our hosts Karl and Erum are joined by the amazing Nicole Richards, a 28-year veteran in the chemical space and CEO of Allonnia. Nicole shares her valuable insights on how biology can be harnessed to solve some of our biggest challenges and transform waste into valuable resources. We discuss the exciting new lab in Brooklyn, which has been generously funded by city and state money, as well as sustainable birthday boxes and event swag made from bio-based materials. Lastly, we learn about Allonnia's groundbreaking work in extracting rare earths from mine waste sites and using biology to treat contaminants. Tune in to hear from a true expert and discover how you can get involved in this exciting field!
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 - "Waste Is A Failure of Imagination": Exploring The Need For Innovative Solutions
00:03:23 - The Role of Biotech Companies in Waste Management and Habits Change
00:05:49 - Brooklyn's New Lab: Investing in Garbage and Biotech for a Cleaner Future
00:11:37 - Federal Regulations: The Need for Cleanup of Unhealthy Practices
00:15:58 - Soil Contamination Analysis: Unpacking The Complexities
00:23:07 - From Chemical Engineering To Biotech: Leveraging The Benefits Of High Throughput Automation
00:25:51 - Chemical Companies Investing In Biotech To Solve Environmental Problems
00:30:44 - Waste As A Resource: A New Consciousness And Innovative Solutions
00:37:32 - Exploring The Impact Of Landfills And Waste On Society's Health And Wellbeing
00:41:32 - Nicole's Story: Appreciating Allonnia's Sustainable Approach To Waste Management
00:43:53 - Regenerative farming: Probiotic for soil health
Episode Links:
Nicole Richards on LinkedIn
Allonnia's Website
Wall-E movie
Donate to Turkey-Syria Earthquake Relief:
Direct Relief
Disaster Philanthropy
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

Feb 11, 2023 • 48min
12. Oral Microbes, New Religion and a Galactic Takeover. Introducing John Cumbers.
Episode Description:
This week on "Grow Everything," the hosts delve into the world of synthetic biology with guest John Cumbers, a tech background professional and entrepreneur with a passion for starting a biotech company. John hails from England and is married to a Malaysian. During the show, the team discusses the exciting possibilities of engineering bacteria for various applications, such as cleaning teeth without the need for traditional dental hygiene practices, and revenue models that leverage subscription-based models. They also touch on the crucial role of innovation in the field and the impact of monopolies on progress. The episode concludes with a viewing of "Synthetic Biology," a 2-minute video by Vasil Hnatiuk that provides a vivid depiction of the limitless potential of the field. Join the "Grow Everything" team for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of synthetic biology.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder an 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 - Engineering A Better Smile
00:30 - Introduction To Grow Everything
05:02 - Reflections on Ten Years of Biotech Conferences
07:35 - The Inspiring Story Behind the Birth of SynBioBeta
10:19 - The Intersection of Genes, Proteins, and Biotech
14:15 - The Battle for Ethical Fashion
17:35 - Can $250 Million Make Engineering Easier and More Accessible?
19:41 - Discovering the Power of Digital Buddhism
22:17 - The Human Instinct to Create and Innovate
26:24 - Breaking the Chains of Monopolies
28:45 - Exploring the Potential for Consumer Goods, Food, and Healthcare
32:44 - Startups on the Global Stage
35:30 - Exploring the Possibilities of Distributed Science and Synthetic Biology
38:38 - A Look at the Progress and Challenges of Synthetic Biology
42:52 - A Triumph of Diversity
44:37 - Diversity in Science
Episode Links:
John's LinkedIn
SynBioBeta
What's Your Bio Strategy?
Unnatural Selection on Netflix
The Network State book
Video: Synthetic Biology: a vision of the future
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

Feb 3, 2023 • 40min
11. Putting Money Where Your Microbe Is. Investing in Biotech
In the latest episode of Grow Everything, hosts Karl and Erum welcome guest Shelby Newsad, a venture capitalist at Compound VC and a graduate of the University of Cambridge where she studied Bioscience Enterprise and Philosophy. Karl and Erum discuss the thriving biotech industry in New York City and the impact of Indie Bio on the state. Shelby sheds light on the exciting new companies being formed, tackling diverse challenges in the biotech field such as hormone monitoring for women and veterinary drugs utilizing cannabinoids.
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 Uncovering the Vital Role of Petrochemicals in Shaping Our Planet and Health
00:04:07 A Deep Dive into Biotechnology with a NY Insider
00:09:01 Moving Beyond Automation: A Broader View of the Biotech Industry
00:10:29 Investing in Protein Degradation: A Pathway to Change and Better Health
00:16:45 Balancing Opportunities and Risks in Consumer Biotechnology
00:22:13 An Insider's Perspective on the NYC Biotech Scene after Six Months
00:26:28 The Power of Early-stage Investment in Biotech Companies
00:27:54 Building a Complementary Business Through Strategic Investments
00:33:26 Fermentation's Role in the Future of Consumer Biology
00:37:55 Celebrating Brilliance: An Interview with Cambridge Grad Shelby on Biotechnology
Episode Links:
Shelby Newsad's LinkedIn
Shelby's Substack
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
Topics: synthetic biology, entrepreneurship, policy, community, science education, biotech, life sciences, community biolabs, bioliteracy

Jan 26, 2023 • 21min
10. Season One Done. What You Missed and What's Next
On this episode of Grow Everything, Karl and Erum explore the endless possibilities of biotechnology by reviewing the first season of the podcast. They discuss biotechnology's potential to address climate change and how the industry demonstrated its ability to adapt and deliver during the COVID-19 pandemic. Karl shares insights from his recent trip to Boston, where he met with clients and friends. You will hear about some of the upcoming guests in the next season. Finally, Karl and Erum express their gratitude to their listeners and continue to encourage growth in all aspects.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder an 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 - Unlocking the Potential of Biotechnology: Examining the Value of Biologics
00:01:26 - Biotech and Climate Tech: Innovative Solutions to Address Climate Destabilization
00:04:16 - Climate Change and its Impact on Lake Ecosystems
00:05:18 - Investigating the Role of Synthetic Biology in Developing Countries
00:09:36 - Iowa: A Biotech Hub Fueled by Corn Waste
00:10:55 - Discovering the World of Biotechnology Outside of Biopharma
00:12:56 - Talent in Tech and Biotech: A Booming Opportunity
00:13:29 - Mid-Career Professionals in Biotech: Exploring New Opportunities
00:15:51 - Misconceptions and Negative Representations of Synthetic Biology and Biotech in the Media
00:18:01 - Understanding Biotechnology Through Cultural Perspectives
Episode Links:
Shara Ticku LinkedIn
https://www.c16bio.com/
Axel Gómez-Ortigoza Linkedin
Alexis Gómez-Ortigoza Linkedin
Polybion Website
Paul Freemont LinkedIn
Synbicite
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

Jan 19, 2023 • 55min
9. The 1000-Foot View: Where Synbio Is and Where it Could Be
In the latest episode of "Grow Everything," hosts Erum and Karl are joined by renowned bioscience expert, Paul Freemont, to discuss the advancements and opportunities in the field of synthetic biology and biotechnology. Over the past five years, we've seen significant progression in this realm, particularly in terms of educational programs being implemented at universities across the globe. Also, there's been a push towards collaboration between rural and urban areas to create distributed manufacturing systems. Additionally, the integration of other disciplines such as art and design has played a crucial role in driving innovation forward.
It is crucial for investors to educate themselves on the vast opportunities within this field. Furthermore, governments should provide incentives such as tax breaks to companies working in this space. In addition, technology has been utilized to reconnect with nature in a more sustainable way. The progress made in synthetic biology and biotechnology over the past five years is undeniable, and the future looks bright with many exciting possibilities on the horizon.
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:
Synthetic biology has a wide range of potential applications, including biofuels, air purification, and food and material production
Advancements in AI communication have given us a head start in understanding and utilizing synthetic biology.
The UK has seen significant growth in synthetic biology research since 2015.
The maturity of the synthetic biology field has led to exciting entrepreneurial opportunities.
Despite some progress, we still struggle with our dependence on petrochemicals.
Understanding the language of life sciences is essential for further progress in synthetic biology.
Exciting developments in bio-design and the use of biological materials as a design tool.
Innovations in architecture that combat pollution, such as the work of Suzanne Lee.
Building relationships through synthetic biology in Kenya and Ethiopia.
The importance of incorporating biotechnology education into curricula at all levels.
Episode Links:
Paul Freemont LinkedIn
Bio on Paul Freemont
Synbicite
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
Topics: synthetic biology, entrepreneurship, policy, community, science education, biotech, life sciences, community biolabs, bioliteracy

8 snips
Jan 12, 2023 • 50min
8. Biology For All: How Genspace Grows the Bioeconomy
Beth Tuck from Genspace discusses the benefits of community labs for biotech. Topics include creating performance fibers, building intellectual property, and fostering creativity and diversity in science education. The podcast also explores hands-on learning, addressing bio illiteracy, promoting biliteracy in biotech, and partnerships for accessible biotech education.

Jan 5, 2023 • 44min
7. Waste is the New Gold: How Polybion Grows Luxury Biomaterials Part 2
Episode Description:
In this episode of Grow Everything, Alexis discusses the challenges and benefits of scaling a biotech product in the leather industry. He shares how his company, Polybion, has strong partnerships with leather manufacturers that enable them to rapidly prototype new products. Alexis also talks about their facility in Ensenada, which is powered by solar energy and recycles water for use in growing batches of their biotech product. He explains that this product is not meant to replace traditional animal leather, but rather offers similar performance for up to 70% of the market. Additionally, Alexis discusses the possibility of hiring employees from abroad and working remotely, as well as the potential for using synthetic biology to create bio materials and materials for use in space or other planets.
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 Focus On Scale And Yield: The Brothers' Visionary Approach to Biotech Production
00:04:14 Growing Up Entrepreneurs: A Family's Experience in the Biotech Industry
00:07:50 Investor Pushes For Leather Application With Microbial Technology
00:13:08 Exploring The 200-year-old Leather Tradition In Leon, Mexico and Its Potential for Biotech Advancements
00:18:47 Exploring Remote Hiring And Working In San Miguel for Biotech Companies
00:25:25 Creating A New Textile: Comparing Performance Of Animal Leather And Biotech Leather Alternatives
00:27:38 Exploring Synthetic Biology For Materials And BioMaterials Production 00:33:13 Leather Industry Worries Over Potential Shift towards Biotech Leather
00:35:14 Leather Industry's Resistance To Change and Adoption of Biotech Materials
00:40:14 The Beauty Of Local Organic Waste: Crafting Leather From Microbes Using Sustainable Practices
00:42:35 Material Used For Liquid Leggings and Its Potential for Biotech Production
Episode Links:
Alexis Gómez-Ortigoza Linkedin
Polybion Website
Episode Transcript
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
Topics: bioeconomy, biomanufacturing, Biotechnology, synthetic biology, entrepreneurship, biomaterials, leather, leather industry, sustainability, circular economy, waste management, climate technology, startup, scalability, capitalism 2.0, microcosmos