

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

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

Nov 8, 2024 • 1h 12min
102. Waste into WOW! Cemvita's Moji Karimi on Turning Carbon Problems into Golden Opportunities
Karl and Erum sit down with Moji Karimi, co-founder of Cemvita, a company innovating in carbon conversion technology. Moji shares details of Cemvita’s journey from an ambitious vision of industrial biotechnology to solutions that turn carbon emissions into valuable products. Moji talks about the science and impact of reshaping industries like energy, mining, and aerospace, pointing out how important it is to use nature’s processes to advance sustainability. Tune in to learn about the evolving relationship between biotech and heavy industries; a future where carbon waste becomes a resource.
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 - Introduction and Catching Up
00:00:24 - Holiday Season and Social Events
00:01:45 - Pop Culture Collides with Biotech
00:02:14 - Heartfelt Animation: The Wild Robot
00:04:58 - Biotech Meets Horror: The Substance
00:06:59 - Time Magazine’s Best Inventions in Science
00:08:24 - Innovations in Biotech and Mining
00:09:39 - Japanese Wooden Satellites and Space Elevators
00:12:15 - A Thrilling Space Opera: The Reality Dysfunction
00:13:13 - Interview Begins with Moji Karimi of Cemvita
00:21:30 - Pioneering CO2 Utilization: SemVita’s Early Vision
00:30:45 - Navigating Industry Challenges with Biotech
00:36:54 - Oxy’s Bold Vision for CO2 Conversion
00:40:32 - Decarbonization: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Solutions
00:45:51 - Carbon Waste: New Opportunities and Innovations
00:55:54 - Crafting Culture and Building a Team at Cemvita
01:00:28 - Moji’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
01:04:06 - The Dynamics of Working with Family
01:06:09 - Wrapping Up: Final Reflections
Topics Covered: carbon emissions, carbon utilization, sustainable biotech, renewable energy, future of industry, science news, co2 technology, biotech solutions, green innovation, sustainable products, carbon feedstock, bioengineering
Episode Links:
Cemvita
The Wild Robot
Scavengers Reign
The Substance
Time Magazine 100 Best Inventions of 2024
LignoSat - Wooden Satellite
The Next 500 Years: Engineering Life to Reach New Worlds by Chris Mason
The Reality Dysfunction by Peter Hamilton
Foresite Framework
Oxy
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 1, 2024 • 1h
101. Biotech's Glow Up: How Estée Lauder is Leveling Up Skincare with Rocky Graziose
Rocky Graziose from The Estée Lauder Companies is here to discuss the innovative intersection of biotechnology and beauty. With a background in plant natural products chemistry, Rocky brings an insider perspective on how Estée Lauder is pushing boundaries in skincare and cosmetics. He talks about the evolution of the beauty industry and how The Estée Lauder’s Companies commitment to sustainability through biotechnological advancements like precision fermentation. From pioneering skincare routines to developing bioengineered ingredients that are more effective and environmentally friendly, Rocky is giving us all a look into the future of beauty. Tune in to hear how important it is to combine science, tradition, and consumer needs to drive the next generation of skincare solutions.
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 - Introduction and Casual Catch-Up
0:00:39 - Election Anxiety and Current Events
00:01:53 - DNA Data Storage Breakthrough
00:04:04 - Mentorship’s Role in Startups
00:07:11 - AI as Mentor and Healthcare Aid
00:15:34 - Skincare Innovations Overview
00:16:48 - Rocky Graziose of The Estée Lauder Companies Joins the Conversation
00:22:30 - The Estée Lauder’s Companies Origins and Entrepreneurial Spirit
00:29:55 - Apple Fermentation in Skincare
00:33:38 - Precision Fermentation and New Ingredients
00:37:07 - AI’s Role in Beauty and R&D
00:41:04 - Exploring Skin Longevity Platform
00:44:11 - Startup Collaborations and Ventures
00:49:07 - Biotech’s Future in Beauty
00:52:38 - Wrap-Up and Reflections
Topics Covered: biotech beauty, skincare, longevity, anti-aging, prestige beauty, bioeducation, entrepreneurship, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, ingredients
Episode Links:
The Estee Lauder Companies
Skin Longevity Institute
New Incubation Ventures
Estee Lauder Open Innovation
The Patient Will See You Now Book
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

Oct 25, 2024 • 58min
100. The Genspace Genesis: How Bio Design Connects People and the Planet with Dan Grushkin
In this milestone 100th episode, Karl and Erum look back on collaborations like the biosecurity event with Andrew Hessel and the U.S.-India Next Gen Materials event, while also acknowledging the establishment of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary. Erum and Karl are also joined by special guest Dan Grushkin to explore the evolving world of biotechnology and its impact on society. They talk about biosecurity, democratized DNA synthesis, and the intersection of science and creativity. Dan shares how he went from founding Genspace to launching the Biodesign Challenge, discussing the importance of community-driven science and the integration of design with biology.
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 - Kicking Off: Celebrating 100 Episodes of Scientific Exploration
00:00:38 - Looking Back: Two Years of Experimentation and Growth
00:01:45 - Behind the Scenes: The Less Glamorous Side of Podcasting
00:02:31 - Building a Platform: Elevating Bioeconomy Conversations
00:04:27 - Strategic Moves: How We’ve Navigated the Biotech Space
00:06:39 - Listener Feedback: Data-Driven Adjustments and Insights
00:08:16 - Memorable Guests: Highlighting Our Top Scientific Minds
00:12:13 - The Future: What’s Next for the Podcast and Its Impact
00:13:35 - Shoutouts: Acknowledging Biotech Thought Leaders
00:14:00 - The New York Biotech Ecosystem: An Insider’s Perspective
00:15:01 - Biomaterials and Biofabrication: Pioneering Innovation
00:16:54 - Engaging with Our Audience: Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists
00:19:54 - What’s Ahead: Upcoming Topics and Fascinating Guests
00:24:14 - Wrapping It Up: Final Thoughts and a Big Thank You
Topics Covered: biodesign, biology, biosecurity, north star, fashion, materials, biomaterials, sustainability, community biotech, bioeducation, entrepreneurship, movements
Episode Links:
Genspace
Bio Design Challenge
TomTex
Electric Skin
Keel Labs
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

Oct 18, 2024 • 26min
99. Petri Dish to Podcast: How 100 Episodes Helped Us Grow (and Evolve)
Erum and Karl reflect on their journey of producing nearly 100 episodes over two years. They discuss the challenges of consistency, the behind-the-scenes work required, and the evolution of their podcast from a simple idea to a platform that amplifies voices in the biotech space. Highlights include their gratitude to guests and collaborators, feedback from listeners, and the growing impact of their conversations, which now extend beyond audio, into video content and live events. As they look forward to the next 100 episodes, Erum and Karl express excitement about continuing to explore the frontiers of biotechnology and science communication!
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 - Kicking Off: Celebrating 100 Episodes of Scientific Exploration
00:00:38 - Looking Back: Two Years of Experimentation and Growth
00:01:45 - Behind the Scenes: The Less Glamorous Side of Podcasting
00:02:31 - Building a Platform: Elevating Bioeconomy Conversations
00:04:27 - Strategic Moves: How We’ve Navigated the Biotech Space
00:06:39 - Listener Feedback: Data-Driven Adjustments and Insights
00:08:16 - Memorable Guests: Highlighting Our Top Scientific Minds
00:12:13 - The Future: What’s Next for the Podcast and Its Impact
00:13:35 - Shoutouts: Acknowledging Biotech Thought Leaders
00:14:00 - The New York Biotech Ecosystem: An Insider’s Perspective
00:15:01 - Biomaterials and Biofabrication: Pioneering Innovation
00:16:54 - Engaging with Our Audience: Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists
00:19:54 - What’s Ahead: Upcoming Topics and Fascinating Guests
00:24:14 - Wrapping It Up: Final Thoughts and a Big Thank You
Topics Covered: bioeconomy, green chemistry, science, innovation biohacking, pharma, biopharma, longevity, PFAS, forever chemicals, supplement stacks, cell and gene therapy, designer babies, network states, DAOs, lucid dreaming, human enhancement
Episode Links:
Biofabricate Membership. Join Today.
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


