
Grow Everything Biotech Podcast
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.
Latest episodes

Jan 17, 2025 • 50min
112. The Baked-In Future of Science: Nick Edwards on Potato AI’s Quest to Become Your AI Scientist
Erum and Karl have an incredible chat with Nick Edwards, the innovative mind behind Potato AI. Nick goes into the inspiration behind the platform's unique name, rooted in childhood curiosity and scientific wonder, and shares his journey from neuroscience research to building a groundbreaking tool aimed at accelerating scientific discovery. He explains how Potato tackles the overwhelming deluge of scientific literature and the reproducibility crisis using AI to structure and analyze data in transformative ways. With stories from his own career, a stint in consulting, and running his podcast "Once a Scientist," Nick discusses the future of AI, science, and collaboration. This episode has amazing insights into how technology is reshaping the very fabric of research.
Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Potatoes, Balloons, and a DIY Lab Setup
00:04:56 - Reproducibility Crisis: 70% of Research in Question
00:06:40 - Meet Nick Edwards: The Potato Visionary
00:10:00 - Organizing Scientific Chaos: How AI Helps
00:14:47 - AI Research Assistant vs. AI Scientist: The Journey
00:20:09 - From Neuroscience to Entrepreneurship: A Scientist’s Leap
00:25:00 - Biopharma Meets Bioindustrials: Bridging Two Worlds
00:29:27 - Liquid Handlers and Shared Protocols: Optimizing Biotech
00:35:13 - Multimodality and the AI Scientist Dream
00:39:04 - Citizen Scientists and Accessible AI Tools
00:45:00 - The Next Scientific Revolution: AI and Decentralized Science
Episode Links:
Potato AI
Once A Scientist Podcast
Merck Digital Science Studio
Wiley
Elsevier
Ginkgo Bioworks
Topics Covered: Research, AI research assistant, AI Scientist, Biotech, Lab Automation, Reproducibility
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / Grow Everything
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 2min
111. Space Genes and Subway Scenes: Chris Mason on Planning Life’s Next Big Leap
Karl and Erum welcome Dr. Chris Mason. He’s a professor of genomics, physiology, and biophysics, as well as co-founder / COI of BiotiaNYC, Ursa Bio, and Onegevity. Chris will take you on a journey from the mysteries of space genomics to the hidden worlds of Earth's microbiomes. He discusses the intersection of advanced biology and space exploration, diving into his work with NASA’s twin study, the possibilities of planetary engineering, and his fascination with unknown DNA found even in urban subways. Chris also talks about how the convergence of ancient biological knowledge and cutting-edge technology could redefine humanity's future, both on Earth and beyond.
Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Chapters:
00:00:00 - The Spark of Science and Fresh Starts
00:01:23 - The Biotech Buzz in San Francisco
00:03:37 - Blockchain Meets Biology
00:07:45 - 2025’s Game-Changers: Microbes and Mars
00:08:52 - Into the Unknown: Dr. Chris Mason’s Journey
00:12:29 - Space’s Genetic Surprises
00:15:55 - Portable Labs Orbiting Earth
00:21:58 - Hidden Worlds Underfoot: Urban Microbes
00:32:19 - Tokyo’s Microbial Enigma
00:33:08 - The Peanut Paradox and Immune Myths
00:35:56 - Singular Cells in Vast Ecosystems
00:36:46 - From Genes to Blueprints: Synthetic Biology
00:47:31 - Terraforming at Planetary Scale
00:50:45 - Commercial Space Odysseys
00:52:53 - The Biology of Tomorrow: Dreams of Terraforming
00:55:59 - Wrapping Up with Visionaries
Episode Links:
The Next 500 Years: Engineering Life to Reach New Worlds by Chris Mason
Two New Space Planes
DeSci Market Capitalization
Chris Mason Lab
Twins Study - Astronaut genomics
MetaSub
Among New York Subway’s Millions of Riders, a Study Finds Many Mystery Microbes
Extreme Microbiome Project
Colossal Biosciences
Topics Covered:
space genomics, urban microbiomes, dna discovery, planetary engineering, biotechnology trends, genetic engineering, synthetic biology tools, microbiome exploration
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / Grow Everything
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Jan 3, 2025 • 21min
110. Culture Shock: What's Brewing for the Bioeconomy in 2025
Karl and Erum give us a peek into their outlook for 2025, discussing biotech trends, the rise of decentralized science, and the convergence of AI with biology. They talk about the thawing of the "biotech winter," the potential risks of a new bird flu pandemic, and exciting innovations in quantum biology and drug discovery. Their conversation also touches on how waste can become a resource in biomanufacturing, the future of microbiome engineering, and the growing visibility of biotech in mainstream media. Tune in to hear Karl and Erum set the stage for an exciting year ahead in the world of biotech and beyond.
Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Chapters:
00:00:00 – The Mushroom That Might Save Us All
00:00:15 – A Slightly Nasal New Year Kickoff
00:01:30 – Bird Flu: The Pandemic Alarm We're Ignoring
00:04:43 – Decentralized Science: Funding the Future with Tokens
00:08:16 – AI, Quantum Biology, and Drug Discovery Breakthroughs
00:11:36 – Turning Trash into Treasure: Biomanufacturing's Next Frontier
00:14:12 – Microbiomes: Tiny Giants in Biotech's Future
00:16:14 – Biotech Goes Mainstream: Ads, Cartoons, and Pop Culture
00:19:54 – 2025 Awaits: A Year of Big Ideas and Bold Moves
Episode Links:
Spore Token
ARPA-H
Vitalia - Join today!
Vitalia Summer School Program - Enroll today!
Cemvita
Polybion
Head & Shoulders x NFL scalp microbiome commercial
Nike Stairs commercial
American Dad gene editing episode
Common Side Effects on Adult Swim
Topics Covered:
2025 outlook, decentralized science, quantum biology, longevity biotech, waste to value, waste as a resource, biomaterials, bioeducation, microbiome
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / Grow Everything
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Dec 27, 2024 • 59min
109. Long Live Vitalia: The City Where Aging Slows and Innovation Accelerates With Niklas Anzinger
Karl and Erum welcome Niklas Anzinger, the visionary founder of Vitalia, a decentralized city aimed at revolutionizing biotech and longevity. Niklas discusses the need for a more efficient drug development process, proposing a shift toward safety trials and medical reciprocity that could drastically shorten the time it takes to bring life-saving therapies to market. He talks about how Vitalia serves as a hub for biotech innovation, where companies can thrive outside traditional bureaucratic constraints. Niklas shares his ideas on medical freedom and the importance of allowing individuals to make informed choices about their health. He critiques the paternalistic nature of current healthcare systems, advocating for a more empowering approach that encourages personal responsibility and informed decision-making. Niklas believes that by creating a culture of innovation and flexibility, Vitalia can set new standards in healthcare, ultimately improving patient outcomes and accelerating scientific advancements. As Karl and Erum wrap up the episode, they express their excitement about the potential impact of Niklas’s vision—not just for Vitalia, but for the global landscape of biotech and longevity.
Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Chapters:
00:00:00 The Time Machine: Year-End Reflections
00:00:45 The Alchemy of Biomanufacturing: International Insights
00:01:39 Star Chronicles: Key Episodes and Guests
00:04:05 The Crystal Ball: Science Funding & Future Predictions
00:06:10 Meet the Innovator: Niklas Anzinger
00:07:10 Building Tomorrow: Niklas on Vitalia & Decentralized Cities
00:14:43 Fast Track to Discovery: Accelerating Drug Development
00:20:40 The First Pop-Up City: A Review and Future Horizons
00:25:52 The Legal Labyrinth: Frameworks for Biotech Startups
00:29:14 Navigating New Waters: Regulatory Flexibility & Ethics
00:31:21 The Freedom Frontier: Medical Autonomy Explored
00:32:36 The Healthcare Conundrum: Challenges Ahead
00:37:31 Breakthrough Moments: Success Stories in Biotech
00:42:17 The Crypto Revolution: Blockchain in City Governance
00:46:25 The Science of Decentralization: Research Funding Innovations
00:49:02 Future Frontiers: Opportunities Within Vitalia
00:50:50 The Grand Finale: Conclusions and Reflections
Episode Links:
Vitalia - Join today!
Vitalia Summer School Program - Enroll today!
Prospera Startup City
Zuzalu City
FDA Modernization Act
Dallas Buyers Club
MiniCircle
Unlimited Bio
Symbiont Labs
Topics Covered:
longevity biotech, crypto, human enhancement, biohacking, network states, biopharma regulation, healthcare system, sickcare system, medical reciprocity, safety trials, patients right to choose, drug development, economics of science, quantum biology, aging biology, regulatory flexibility
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / Grow Everything
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Dec 20, 2024 • 51min
108. Sequence and Desist: Aclid's Kevin Flyangolts On Safeguarding the Bioeconomy
Kevin Flyangolts joins Erum and Karl to talk about the evolving landscape of biosecurity. They discuss the rapid advancements in biotechnology, the growing accessibility of synthetic DNA, and the need for robust screening systems to ensure safety in the bioeconomy. Kevin shares knowledge from his software background, explaining how tools like those at Aclid Bio are bridging gaps in security, protecting against potential misuse, and setting the stage for future innovations in biotech. With reflections on government initiatives, industry collaboration, and the complexities of ethical biosecurity practices, this conversation showcases the urgent issues and exciting possibilities in the intersection of biology and technology.
Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Opening with Unchecked DNA Risks
00:00:22 - Drones, Aliens, and the Unknown
00:01:45 - The Biotech Holiday Buzz
00:04:18 - Manufacturing the Future: A Revolution Begins
00:07:05 - DARPA’s Wild Moonshot Ideas
00:09:47 - What Keeps Us Up at Night
00:11:55 - Meet Kevin: Biosecurity Pioneer
00:15:30 - The Software Revolution in Biotech
00:19:45 - Tackling Biosecurity Challenges with Innovation
00:24:58 - Regulations in a Rapidly Changing Field
00:28:59 - Red Teams and Hidden Vulnerabilities
00:39:04 - Building Biotech Trust and Collaboration
00:44:21 - A Vision for Safer Biotech
00:46:59 - Wrap-Up and What’s Next in Biosecurity
Episode Links:
Aclid Bio
Genspace
ECHO NYC
Biolabs@NYULangone
Quorum Bio
The Department of Defense under the Distributed Bioindustrial Manufacturing Program (DBIMP) made 34 awards worth over $60 million. Awardees include Cauldron and Checkerspot.
Topics Covered:
biosecurity, DNA synthesis, BIOSECURE Act, computer science
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / Grow Everything
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Dec 13, 2024 • 1h 1min
107. Glow Big or Go Home: Andy Bass's Journey with Glowing Oceans
Andy Bass is an entrepreneur and biologist who transforms the magic of bioluminescence into immersive experiences. He discusses his innovative projects, like the Dino Pet, aimed at fostering curiosity about marine life. The conversation dives into the emotional and environmental connection to glowing oceans, highlighting the importance of art in conservation. From serene ocean bathing to the need for engaging public exhibits, Andy inspires listeners to embrace nature’s wonders while advocating for marine preservation.

Dec 6, 2024 • 1h 4min
106. Ferment Your Worldview: Jason Kakoyiannis' Recipe for a Bioeconomy Boom
Jason Kakoyiannis, founder of Bioscentric and managing partner of Ferment!, dives into the world of market-driven biotech solutions. He shares insights on how curiosity led him from the art world to pioneering eco-friendly innovations. The discussion explores the emergence of plastic-eating bacteria and sustainable approaches to tackle climate challenges. Jason also emphasizes the importance of identifying the right problems in biotechnology and highlights his venture studio's strategies to support impactful, non-healthcare solutions.

Nov 29, 2024 • 1h 25min
105. Revisiting Animal Microbiome Health with BiomEdit’s Aaron Schacht – Fresh Commentary
Join Karl and Erum in this special Thanksgiving replay of Aaron Schacht’s episode as they revisit this fascinating conversation. Aaron is the CEO & Board Director of BiomEdit and he has a visionary approach to leveraging microbiome science and synthetic biology to tackle some of the biggest challenges in animal health. Whether it’s creating healthier livestock, addressing sustainability issues, or revolutionizing methane reduction in agriculture, this episode covers it all.
As Karl and Erum reflect on the year, they share what they’re thankful for before introducing Aaron’s episode. BiomEdit’s innovative strides, led by Aaron, let us in on the potential in animal agriculture and the power of biotechnology.
Please enjoy the full replay of Aaron Schacht’s episode—a perfect listen for a Thanksgiving break or any time you’re curious about how biology is shaping the future of our food systems and beyond!
Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Chapters:
00:00:00 A Thanksgiving Welcome: Reflections and Gratitude
00:00:49 Looking Ahead: Strategies for 2025
00:02:44 Global Biotech Highlights: Insights from Chile and India
00:06:47 The Biotech Boom: Startups and Industry Trends
00:09:18 Personal Gratitude: Moments That Matter
00:11:47 Replay Begins: Aaron Schacht and the BiomEdit Revolution
00:12:30 Breaking Boundaries: The Quest for Animal Health Innovation
00:14:02 Microbiomes Unleashed: Transforming Livestock Care
00:17:15 Human vs. Animal Health: Lessons from Both Worlds
00:20:45 Synthetic Biology Spotlight: Engineering Solutions for Animals
00:23:10 Catching Up: Why Animal Medicine Trails Human Innovation
00:25:33 Antibiotics Reimagined: Solving the Resistance Crisis
00:28:12 Microbiome Resilience: Unlocking Nature’s Secrets
00:31:45 The Diversity Code: Harnessing Microbial Power
00:35:20 Bacteria as Tools: Crafting Solutions for Tomorrow
00:38:00 From Lab to Farm: Turning Science into Action
00:40:47 FDA Deep Dive: Understanding CDER, CBER, and CVM
00:42:50 Hidden Helpers: Exploring the Microbiome’s Role in Health
00:45:16 Sustainability in Agriculture: Making an Impact
00:49:37 Tackling the Tough Questions: Challenges in Microbiome Science
00:51:12 Mapping the Invisible: Microbial Atlases for Progress
01:10:04 The Future Is Bright: BiomEdit’s Vision for Animal Health
01:15:52 Closing the Loop: Reflections and Next Steps
Topics Covered: biotech, biodesign, built environment, living environment, microbiome, research, discovery, brooklyn
Episode Links:
India's BioE3 Policy
BIOMADE US Initiative for biomanufacturing
Jugaad - (Indian English term) - involving the use of skill and imagination to find an easy solution to a problem or to fix or make something using cheap, basic items.
The odds of you being alive - Neil deGrasse Tyson
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
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Nov 22, 2024 • 1h 11min
104. Unseen Worlds: Exploring Environmental Microbiomes and Their Secrets of Human and Climate Impact with Dr. Elizabeth Henaff
Karl and Erum welcome computational biologist and artist Elizabeth Henaff to talk about the invisible yet vital world of microbiomes in urban settings. Elizabeth discusses the fascinating interplay between microbes and city life, explaining how DNA sequencing brings out hidden microbial stories in spaces like subway stations, waterways, and even beehives. The conversation goes into how design decisions influence microbial ecosystems, the surprising microbial diversity in cities, and the potential of art and science to shape a healthier, more sustainable urban future. This episode invites listeners to rethink their relationship with the unseen living world around them.
Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Feel the Forest Love: Why Biophilia and Microbes Make Us Happy
00:00:27 - Biotech on a Rooftop: Founder-Led Biotech Tour Vibes
00:02:50 - Tough Times, Tougher Startups: Thriving When the Going Gets Rough
00:03:55 - AI Meets Biotech: Merck Studio’s Recipe for Innovation
00:07:40 - Prompting Ain’t Easy: The Art (and Struggles) of Talking to AI
00:13:58 - Hello, Microbes! Introducing Elizabeth Henaf and the World of Urban Microbiomes
00:18:00 - Who Invited the Microbes?: What Shapes the Microbial Life of Cities
00:21:28 - Designing with Dirt in Mind: Architecture’s Role in Indoor Microbial Health
00:23:00 - Subway Secrets: Swabbing NYC for Microbial Gold
00:30:00 - Microbial Memory Lane: How Cities Carry Their Hidden Histories
00:33:00 - Invisible Architects: Why Measuring Microbes is a Headache
00:35:00 - Bugs in the Playground: What Biodiversity Teaches Us About Health
00:37:47 - Microscopic Urbanites: Microbial Life in Cities, Up Close and Personal
00:38:28 - Black Mayonnaise Alert: Inside the Gowanus Canal Microbiome
00:40:26 - Designing for the Invisible: Creating Microbe-Friendly Indoor Spaces
00:42:56 - CSI Brooklyn: Microbial Fingerprints in Contaminated Sites
00:52:21 - Bee-yond Pollination: How Honeybees Spy on Microbial Worlds
00:58:47 - Probiotic Cities: Reimagining Urban Design Through Microbial Ecosystems
01:03:00 - That’s a Wrap: Microbial Reflections and Open Windows
Topics Covered: biotech, biodesign, built environment, living environment, microbiome, research, discovery, brooklyn
Episode Links:
Henaff Lab at NYU Tandon School of Engineering
Founder-led Biotech Tour by Pillar VC
Merck Digital Sciences Studio
Nvidia's BioNeMO framework
MetaSub Global Consortia
Mapping the Microbes in New York City’s Subway System
Greener Play Areas Could Boost Kids’ Immune Systems
Gowanus Canal Microbe Study
Honeybee Hives May Reveal The Microbial Signatures Of Urban Aerobiomes
Hacking the President’s DNA by Andrew Hessel
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
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Nov 15, 2024 • 59min
103. DNA of Defense: Alexander Titus on How NSCEB is Advancing Biotech for National Security Challenges
Karl and Erum bring on Dr. Alexander Titus, a commissioner on the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, to explore the exciting and challenging intersections of biotechnology and policy. Alexander shares his experiences from his unique journey across academia, government, and industry, diving into the role of biosecurity, the potential of synthetic biology, and the emerging convergence of tech and bio. They discuss ambitious projects like de-extincting the woolly mammoth, advances in biodefense, and the impacts of AI on biotech innovation. It’s a conversation that sheds light on how cutting-edge biotech could shape the future and the necessary balance between innovation and ethical responsibility.
Grow Everything brings the bioeconomy to life. Hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories and interview the leaders and influencers changing the world by growing everything. Biology is the oldest technology. And it can be engineered. What are we growing?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Behind the Scenes of Bureaucracy
00:00:30 - Democracy’s Turning Point
00:02:23 - A Fiery Day in Prospect Park
00:04:20 - How Spaces Shape Our Health
00:08:35 - Enter Alexander Titus: Biosecurity Visionary
00:10:13 - Biotech: The New Face of National Defense
00:15:09 - Where Tech and Policy Collide
00:23:10 - The Future of Biosecurity Unfolds
00:28:02 - Bold Science vs. Ethical Boundaries
00:30:24 - Robotics Meets Biotech: What’s Next?
00:33:29 - Hard Lessons from Cross-Industry Giants
00:35:49 - Innovation Clashes with Red Tape
00:36:11 - The Power of Expertise in Shaping Policy
00:42:26 - Biotech’s Hidden Environmental Risks
00:45:42 - The Commission’s Bold Path Forward
00:48:45 - Parting Thoughts: What Lies Ahead
Topics Covered: biotech, biosecurity, national security commission on emerging biotechnology, policy
Episode Links:
The Wild Life of Our Bodies by Robb Dunn
Geerat Vermeij
BTO - Biological Technologies Office of DARPA
Bioeconomy.XYZ
The Nobel Turing Challenge
Range by David Epstein
NSCEB Interim Report
AI Safety Institute
The Echo Wife by Sara Gailey
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
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media