
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

Feb 9, 2024 • 46min
63. From Silicon to Sequences: DNA Data Storage with DNALI's Kyle Tomek
Episode Description:
Imagine a world where you could store all the data ever created in a drop of water. Sounds impossible, right? But that's exactly what Kyle Tomek, the visionary behind DNA data storage, is working on. In this episode, we have the privilege of talking to Tomek about his groundbreaking technology that could revolutionize how we preserve and access information. Tomek tells us how he and his team at DNALi are able to encode digital data into the building blocks of life, creating a storage system that is not only ultra-dense and eco-friendly, but also immune to decay and obsolescence. He also shares with us how DNA data storage can be used for various purposes, such as improving healthcare, preserving cultural heritage, and even exploring outer space. This episode will take you on a mind-blowing adventure of discovering the amazing potential of DNA data storage, and show you how this technology can transform the future of data management and preservation.
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
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - Inside the Biopharmaceutical Revolution: A Primer
00:01:08 - Behind the Scenes: Novo Holdings & Catalant's Innovations
00:03:29 - Biotech & Biosecurity: The U.S. Government's Vision
00:07:07 - Unpacking the Work of Messaging Lab
00:08:05 - Addressing the Global Data Storage Crisis
00:12:27 - Meet Kyle Tomek: Pioneering DNA Data Storage with DNALi
00:25:29 - Envisioning the Next Frontier: DNA for Data Preservation
00:27:39 - The Revolutionary Technique: Storing Data in Modified DNA
00:29:21 - Exploring the DNA Data Storage Alliance & Its Commercial Promise
00:30:59 - Strategic Moves: Navigating the DNA Storage Market
00:32:36 - From Concept to Reality: DNA Storage's Practical Uses
00:36:53 - Spotlight on North Carolina's Biotech Landscape
00:41:48 - The Cutting-Edge: Latest in DNA Storage & Synthesis
00:43:27 - Projecting the Evolution of Biotech Innovations
00:44:23 - Inspirations from Literature and Cinema on the Future of Biotech
Episode Links:
Nature Journal Podcast (website)
Kyle on LinkedIn
DNALi
AxiosBio
Memory Card
Get $300 off Synbiobeta tickets (May 6-9 in San Jose, CA) using promo code: Grow Everything
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

Feb 2, 2024 • 58min
62. Microbes, Memes and Missions to Mars: John Cumbers' Wild Synbio World
Episode Description:
How can biotechnology transform the world and beyond? That's the question that John Cumbers, a biotech visionary and entrepreneur, explores in this episode of the podcast. He reveals how biotechnology is merging with other sectors, such as space exploration, and how synthetic biology is reshaping the future. He also discusses how biotech can help solve global problems, from environmental to health issues. He shares his insights on the latest trends and innovations in biotech, such as AI and decentralized science, and how they are creating new possibilities and challenges. He also tells his story, from working at NASA to founding SynBioBeta, and how he envisions a future where biology and technology create amazing solutions for humanity.
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
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - Exploring Global Biotech Innovations: Focus on Saudi Arabia
00:01:57 - Overcoming Hurdles in Global Biotech Projects
00:03:35 - Visioning the Future: Sustainable Biotech Solutions Worldwide
00:04:17 - Spotlight on Africa: Biotech's Role in Sustainable Development
00:05:24 - Strategic Moves: Shaping the Future of Biotech Startups
00:07:38 - Exclusive: John Cumbers on Pioneering Biotech Advancements
00:18:52 - Decentralizing Science: The Rise of DAOs in Biotech
00:22:44 - Beyond Earth: The Nexus of Space Exploration and Biology
00:29:44 - A Glimpse into the Future: AI Meets Synthetic Biology
00:34:03 - Rethinking Synthetic Biology: A Lively Debate
00:37:26 - Safeguarding the Future: Biotech in National Security
00:40:05 - Competing on a Global Stage: Insights into Biotech Ecosystems
00:47:25 - Launching New Ventures: The Evolution of Biological Enlightenment Studios
00:50:15 - Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways from Our Discussion with John Cumbers
Episode Links:
Get $300 off Synbiobeta tickets (May 6-9 in San Jose, CA) using promo code: Grow Everything
Saudi Arabia National Biotech Strategy (news)
Masdar City in Abu Dhabi (website)
The Line by NEOM in Saudia Arabia (website)
Synbiobeta Investor Report 2024 (website)
BetaSpace on the Moon 2030 (website)
Neoplants (website)
Biofabricate (website)
Light Bio (website)
Molecule DAO (website)
Valley DAO (website)
Athena DAO (website)
Hair DAO (website)
Vita DAO (website)
Paul Stamets (wikipedia)
Martine Rothblatt (wikipedia)
Craig Venter (wikipedia)
Sang Yup Lee (website)
Drew Barry Central Dogma (video)
National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (website)
Ailurus (website)
Lantern Bio oral microbiome company (website)
Synthetic Biology by Vantage Films (video)
Polybion x Ganni (story)
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

Jan 26, 2024 • 36min
61. Living in a Material World: Karl at Biofabricate 2024
Exploring the Biofabricate 2024 conference, the podcast discusses the transformative potential of biotech solutions in sustainable fashion. The episode highlights groundbreaking innovations in sustainable fashion, personal care, and beauty. It emphasizes the urgent need for eco-friendly solutions in the fashion industry and marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards a more sustainable future.

Jan 19, 2024 • 51min
60. Edible Air Fare: Solar Foods' Unique Microbe Turns CO2 into Protein
A podcast explores Solar Foods' innovative method of producing protein powder from carbon dioxide, highlighting its potential in combating climate change. The hosts discuss the symbiotic relationship between biotechnology and environmental conservation, emphasizing the need for sustainable food production methods. They also touch on topics such as the limitations of biofabrication, sustainable alternatives in electronics and agriculture, and the potential of microbes in biotechnology.

Jan 12, 2024 • 51min
59. Cementing Change: How Ginger Dosier's Biomason is Paving a Greener Path
Episode Description:
Karl Scmieder and Erum Azeez-Khan welcome Ginger Dosier, an architect-turned-biotech innovator, and the co-founder of Biomason, to the Grow Everything podcast. With a rich background that intertwines experiences at NASA and a deep passion for sustainable building materials, Ginger shares her groundbreaking work in developing biofabricated bricks. This revolutionary approach to construction not only challenges traditional methods but also introduces a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative. Throughout the episode, listeners will gain insights into the intersections of architecture, biology, and environmental stewardship, highlighting Ginger Dosier’s unique perspective on building a greener future.
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
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - Welcome to Innovation: Introduction to the Episode
00:02:01 - Meet Ginger Dosier: Interview with the Co-Founder of Biomason
00:08:13 - Revolutionizing Materials: The Concept of Biofabricated Cement
00:11:34 - Crafting the Future: How Biomason Grows Bricks
00:17:53 - Changing the Industry: Biocement's Impact on Construction
00:19:29 - Beyond Strength: Analyzing Biocement's Performance Characteristics
00:22:41 - Looking Ahead: Future Applications of Biocement
00:26:55 - Evolving Ideas: The Development of Biomason
00:29:40 - Facing the Future: Upcoming Challenges in the Industry
00:31:25 - Localizing Production: The Power of Distributed Biomanufacturing
00:37:48 - Transparent Building: The Importance of Supply Chain Clarity
00:42:53 - Leading Change: The Role of Biotech Firms in the New Economy
00:45:23 - Inspirational Farewell: Closing Thoughts and Future Goals
Episode Links:
Ginger Dosier on LinkedInBiomason
Biomason on Twitter
Ginger Krieg Dosier Wikipedia
Biomason (company)
Biomimicry by Janine Benyus (book)
Endolith (company)
Ecovative (interview with CEO Eben Bayer is Ep. 23, company)
Parley for the Oceans (company)
Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari (book)
Superfly by Jonathan Balcombe (book)
Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives by David Eagleman (book)
Unknown: Cosmic Time Machine (film)
Leave The World Behind (film)
Super Pumped: The Battle For Uber (series)
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

Jan 5, 2024 • 28min
58. Beyond Outsourcing: Erum Discovers India's Not Just Playing Lab Assistant
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum, discuss the nuances of India's biotech scene, highlighting its innovative ventures and the unique challenges they face. They uncover insights from key players in the industry and discusses the global implications of India's biotech advancements. They shed light on the fascinating concept of 'Juggad' – a creative problem-solving approach prevalent in Indian startups. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and global biotech trends.
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
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - The Focus on India's Biotech Industry in 2024
00:01:14 - India's Biotech Landscape: Key Developments and Innovations in Indian Biotechnology
00:02:30 - Beyond the West: Innovation in Biotech in Non-Western Countries
00:03:53 - Bangalore's Biotech Scene: An Exploration of Biotech Innovations in Bangalore, India
00:06:03 - Cutting-Edge Innovations: Highlighting Significant Biotech Advances in India
00:10:57 - Economic Impact: The Role of Biotech in Shaping India's Economy
00:12:10 - Vision for the Future: Prospects and Predictions for the Future of Biotech in India
00:26:02 - Concluding Thoughts and Plans for Future Episodes
Episode Links:
Explore and Learn About Bengaluru (Bangalore), India
Learn More About Biotechnology in India
Top 12 Emerging Companies in India
Terra Bioware
Shruti Singh
National Center for Biological Sciences
Centre for Cellular And Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP)
Bangalore Bioinnovation Centre
Biocon
Akila Thirumalai
Anna University, Chennai
Cascade Biocatalysts
Alex Rosay of Cascade Biocatalysts
Elliot Roth of Spira
Spira Inc.
SynBioBeta
Ginkgo Bioworks
Department of Biotechnology
Bversity
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

Dec 29, 2023 • 52min
57. Climatech is Biotech. Kristin Ellis of Lowercarbon Capital Replay
Join Karl and Erum on the latest episode of Grow Everything as they explore the intersection of climate tech and biotech with Kristin Ellis of Lowercarbon Capital. From discussing the impact of biotech in the media to the future of climate tech and its impact on the job market, this episode covers a wide range of exciting topics. Tune in to hear about the failures of overcomplicating blood-based diagnostics, the key factors in being a strong team, and what VCs look for when investing in companies. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative ride through the world of climate tech and 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 - Welcome to Grow Everything!
00:00:30 - Meet Kristin Ellis: From Biotech to Climate Tech
00:02:45 - How Kristin Ellis Pivoted from Biotech to Climate Tech
00:11:15 - The Theranos Debacle: How Overcomplication Can Ruin a Startup
00:13:55 - Kristin Ellis Joins Lower Carbon Capital: A New Venture in Climate Tech
00:20:50 - What Does a Venture Capitalist Do in Climate Tech?
00:23:56 - The Importance of Diversity in Climate Tech
00:25:19 - How Climate Tech and Biotech Intersect and Innovate
00:26:33 - How Biotechnology Can Transform the Way We Make Things
00:29:08 - How Biotechnology Can Help Solve the Climate Crisis
00:32:13 - How Lower Carbon Capital Decides Which Climate Tech Startups to Invest In
00:37:05 - Some of the Most Exciting Climate Tech Startups in Lower Carbon’s Portfolio
00:41:11 - How Lower Carbon Capital Measures the Impact of Its Investments
00:43:36 - Why Kristin Ellis Is Optimistic About the Future of Climate Tech
00:47:58 - Kristin Ellis’s Final Words of Wisdom and Future Plans
Episode Links:
Kristin Ellis on LinkedIn
Lowercarbon Capital
Companies mentioned:
OpenTrons
Carbon 180
Solugen
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

Dec 22, 2023 • 25min
56. Sowing Seeds, Germinating Biotech Buzz: Grow Everything is One Year Old
Episode Description:
We reflect on our first year of podcasting and share some of the things we learned, enjoyed, and appreciated about biotech. We discuss some of the themes and topics that emerged from our conversations with biotech leaders, such as the complexity and diversity of biology, the challenges and opportunities of scaling bioproduction, and the importance of radical thinking and innovation. We also highlight some of our favorite episodes and guests, and thank our listeners for their support and feedback. Join us as we celebrate one year of growing everything!
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 - Opening Insights: A Year in Biotech Podcasting
00:01:03 - Behind the Scenes: Engaging with Our Biotech Community
00:03:20 - Key Takeaways: What Biotech Taught Us This Year
00:05:56 - Deep Dive: The Promise of Terraformation in Biotech
00:08:19 - The Essence of Biotech: Unraveling Biological Complexity
00:09:03 - Microbial Marvels: Their Crucial Role in Biotechnology
00:13:19 - Fan Favorites: Highlighting Top Episodes & Guests
00:16:20 - Scaling Up: Tackling Biotech's Biggest Challenges
00:21:25 - Forward-Thinking: The Future of Biotech & Our Podcast
00:23:33 - Gratitude and Goodbyes: A Special Thanks to Our Listeners
Episode Links:
51. Cell-Free, Problem-Free: Enzyme Alchemy with Alex Rosay at Cascade Biocatalysts
48. Belly of the Beast: How BiomEdit's Aaron Schacht Cashes in on Animal Microbiomes for Health & Profit
43. Emission Impossible: Lanzatech’s Zara Summers on Converting Carbon into Cash
49. From Edibles to Medicals: Jellatech’s Stephanie Michelsen Uncovers the Multiple Uses of Collagen & Gelatin
27. Charting the Unexplored Microverse for Biological Gold with CULTIVARIUM’s Nili Ostrov
25. From Lab to Table: Meat Orbillion's Better-For-You Beef
21. The Venn Diagram of Climate and Biology is a Circle: Kristin Ellis of Lowercarbon Capital
20. The Butterfly Effect: Sustainable High-Performance Materials from Micro-Algae
14. Cannabis & Biotech. Nuff Said.
54. Money, Molecules, and Mind-Benders: Seth Yakatan Returns, Nuff Said
5. Dreaming in Biology: Tales from the Ginkgo Bioworks Studio
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

Dec 15, 2023 • 44min
55. Nature Healing Nature -- Faster. Allonnia's Nicole Richards Replay
Welcome to this weeks recap of Grow Everything, where we take a deep dive into the fascinating world of soil health and the incredible power of engineering organisms. 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 - Recap of Previous Episodes and What’s Coming Up
00:00:45 - Meet Allonnia: The Company that is Accelerating Nature’s Ability to Heal Itself
00:01:30 - What are ‘Forever Chemicals’ and Why Should We Care?
00:03:04 - Nicole Richards: The CEO of Allonnia and a Chemical Engineering Veteran
00:04:51 - How ‘Forever Chemicals’ are Affecting Our Health and Environment
00:07:45 - The Innovative Solutions that Allonnia is Developing to Tackle Chemical Pollution
00:10:01 - How Allonnia is Working with Polluted Sites to Restore Them
00:17:51 - The Partnership Between Allonnia and Ginkgo Bioworks
00:19:47 - Nicole’s Journey from Chemical Engineering to Biotech
00:21:49 - How Biology is Changing the Chemical Industry
00:24:10 - How Allonnia is Serving Different Customers and Industries
00:27:20 - How Our Choices Impact the Amount of Waste We Generate
00:29:15 - How We Can Shift Our Consumption Habits to be More Sustainable
00:31:03 - How Nicole Joined Allonnia and Became its CEO
00:32:09 - How Allonnia is Growing and Evolving Rapidly
00:33:52 - How Allonnia is Envisioning the Future of Landfills and Waste Management
00:37:19 - Nicole’s Closing Thoughts and Future Goals
00:37:58 - Karl and Erum’s Reflections on the Interview
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

Dec 8, 2023 • 1h 16min
54. Money, Molecules, and Mind-Benders: Seth Yakatan Returns, Nuff Said
Episode Description:
Seth Yakatan brings his extensive expertise to the table, offering a nuanced exploration of the evolving landscape in the cannabis and biotechnology industries. With a focus on the latest market dynamics, he unpacks the complexities and opportunities currently shaping these sectors. Seth delves deeply into the crucial aspects of investment landscapes, regulatory nuances, and the transformative shift from recreational to therapeutic applications in cannabis. His analysis also extends to the burgeoning role of psychedelics in pharmaceuticals, providing invaluable insights for those at the forefront of these innovative fields.
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: Navigating Social Equity Challenges in the Cannabis Industry
00:00:24 - Biotechnology and Climate Tech: Starting the In-Depth Conversation
00:02:34 - Innovations in Biotech: Geoengineering and Carbon Sequestration
00:04:29 - Biotech's Role in Climate Solutions: A Comprehensive Approach
00:05:36 - Biology as Sustainable Innovation: Exploring Eco-friendly Solutions
00:09:34 - Biotech Meets Cannabis: Analyzing the Intersection and Impacts
00:10:36 - Social Media Influence: Shaping the Cannabis Industry Landscape
00:14:24 - Cannabis Sector Analysis: Unpacking Challenges and Opportunities
00:19:54 - Navigating Legal Terrain: Understanding the Cannabis Industry's Legal Framework
00:23:26 - Forecasting Cannabis: Insights into the Industry's Future
00:37:04 - Enforcement Issues in Cannabis: Addressing Legal and Regulatory Hurdles
00:39:13 - Cannabis Business Models: Identifying Success Strategies
00:45:27 - Psychedelics in Pharma: Emergence and Industry Impact
00:48:18 - Challenges in Psychedelic Therapies: Opportunities and Hurdles
00:54:06 - Cannabis and Psychedelics: Predicting the Future Interplay
01:01:03 - The Power of Numbers: Business Success in Niche Markets
01:03:03 - Effective Positioning: Mastering Cannabis Industry Dynamics
01:10:17 - Psychedelic Tourism: Exploring Future Potentials
01:12:31 - Business Cohort Analysis: Key to Understanding Market Trends
01:14:13 - Asset Light Models: Innovative Approaches in Biotech and Cannabis Industries
Episode Links:
Seth on LinkedIn
Katan Associates
Cannabis Companies Seth mentioned:
Cresco
AYR Wellness
MariMed
FloraWorks
Radicle Science
Exsto Bio
BioNanoSim
Select Elevated
Pacific Stone
Raw Garden
Cookies
Glass House Farms
Catalyst Cannabis
Green Dragon
Eaze
Pure Beauty
A Golden State
Timeless
Gron Edibles
Embarc
Old Pal
Pack Woods
Field Trip
Numinus
Awakn
Levity
Braxia
Beckley Retreats
MAPS
Compass
GH Research
MindMed
BMore
Apex Labs
Ultranative
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