BIO from the BAYOU: Build Your Biotech Network with Key Opinion Leaders and Investors

What happens when two distinct innovation ecosystems, one rooted in the Gulf South and the other on the West Coast, come together with a shared goal? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by special guest host James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, for a dynamic conversation on how regions like the Gulf South and the San Diego binational ecosystem can collaborate to accelerate biotech innovation. From cross-border partnerships and shared workforce models to creative approaches for connecting founders, investors, and institutions, this episode explores what real collaboration looks like beyond the buzzword. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why binational and cross-regional models can unlock new opportunities in biotech, from workforce to commercialization. How the Gulf South’s culture of collaboration creates a strong foundation for ecosystem growth. Practical ways to move from talking about collaboration to actually executing it, including shared events, partnerships, and accountability. Tune in to learn how intentional collaboration, complementary strengths, and a willingness to act can connect ecosystems and create new opportunities for biotech innovation across regions. Links: Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Connect. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Patrick Reed, RTTP. Learn more about the Alliance for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Bio International. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

Biotech is still open for business, but what does it really take to get funded in today’s market? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by special guest host James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, the CEO of Connect, for a candid conversation on the current biotech funding landscape and what founders are up against right now. From longer timelines and more selective investors to the growing importance of relationships, differentiation, and capital strategy, they break down what’s changed for early-stage companies. Drawing from both of their experiences, they explore how founders can navigate today’s environment with sharper focus, stronger storytelling, and a more disciplined approach to execution. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why strong science is no longer enough, and how founders must clearly demonstrate a path to value creation and return on investment. How to build a “patchwork” capital strategy across venture, non-dilutive funding, partnerships, and alternative sources. What founders should prioritize today, from milestone planning and capital efficiency to operational discipline and relationship building. Tune in to learn how to navigate a tougher biotech market, position your company for funding, and build a strategy that stands out in an increasingly competitive landscape. Links: Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Connect. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

What can a 40-year-old innovation organization teach today’s startup ecosystems about staying relevant and driving impact? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by special guest host James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, the original voice behind this podcast and now CEO of Connect in San Diego. James shares insights from stepping into leadership at one of the nation’s most established innovation organizations, reflecting on Connect’s evolution from a hands-on startup support model to a globally recognized ecosystem builder. The conversation explores what it takes to sustain and grow innovation communities over decades, and how lessons from mature ecosystems can inform emerging regions like the Gulf South. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why even the most established innovation organizations must continuously evolve to stay impactful. How Connect is positioning itself as a “front door” to help entrepreneurs navigate dense ecosystems. What founders actually need from ecosystem support and how to deliver it in practical, actionable ways. Tune in to learn how leadership, adaptability, and a founder-first mindset can shape the future of innovation ecosystems in both mature and emerging regions. Links: Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Connect. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn more about Cleantech, San Diego Sports Innovators, and Athena. Connect with Guy Kawasaki, MBA, Petra Stegmann, PhD, and Daniela Gama. Check out the book The First 90 Days. Check out our previous episode with Australia’s Alita Singer and David Brown. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

What does it really take to build a sustainable biotech ecosystem outside of traditional hubs like Boston and San Francisco? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by Christin Godale, PhD, Executive Director of LifeSciKY, to explore how regional innovation communities can grow from the ground up. Christin shares how LifeSciKY is helping entrepreneurs access lab space, shared equipment, mentorship, and community support. The conversation dives into the realities of building biotech infrastructure in emerging regions, and why success comes from leaning into local strengths, building partnerships, and creating opportunities for founders to succeed where they are. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why successful biotech ecosystems rely on strong partnerships between government, industry, and academia. How regions outside traditional biotech hubs can build sustainable innovation communities by leveraging their unique strengths. What incubators and shared lab spaces must provide beyond real estate to truly support founders and early-stage companies. Tune in to learn how collaborative communities and intentional partnerships can transform regional innovation ecosystems and create new opportunities for biotech entrepreneurship. Links: Connect with Christin Godale, PhD, and learn about LifeSciKY. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine, as well as Cadenza Bio. Learn more about Thermo Fisher Scientific, Project Medtech, and SmartHealth Catalyzer. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

Math doesn’t have to be intimidating, especially when it’s the kind that helps fund companies and move science forward. In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by Isaiah Reeves, PhD, Biomedical Analyst at Solas BioVentures, for a practical and approachable deep dive into venture math. Drawing on his background as a scientist turned investor, Isaiah breaks down the core financial concepts every biotech founder should understand: from valuations and dilution to IRR, cap tables, and deal terms. The conversation offers real-world guidance for navigating fundraising, choosing the right partners, and avoiding common pitfalls that can derail long-term value creation. In this episode, you’ll learn: How venture capitalists think about valuations, dilution, and returns, and why fully diluted post-money matters. Key metrics like IRR and DPI, and how they influence investment decisions and fund performance. Common deal terms and cap table “red flags” founders should watch out for as they raise capital. Tune in to learn how understanding venture math can help founders make smarter funding decisions, protect long-term value, and build biotech companies positioned for sustainable growth and impact. Links: Connect with Isaiah Reeves, PhD, and check out Solas BioVentures. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine, as well as Cadenza Bio. Connect with Josh Eckelberry, MBA, and Mark Corrigan, MD. Check out the books The Go-Giver and Venture Deals. Check out the podcasts STAT, Biotech Hangout, and 20VC. Check out our previous episodes on Networking as an Introvert and Solas BioVentures with Travis Manasco. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

Politics can feel overwhelming - but how can scientists, founders, and biotech leaders effectively engage with policymakers to protect innovation and improve patient outcomes? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by Srinu Sonti, JD, Principal at Lewis-Burke Associates LLC, for a candid and insightful conversation on science, policy, and advocacy. Drawing on his experience on Capitol Hill, in health policy, and working with academic medical centers and startups, Srinu breaks down how innovation, funding, and regulation intersect - and why it’s critical for scientists and biotech leaders to have a voice in the policy process. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why policymakers want to hear directly from scientists, founders, and innovators, and how those conversations shape decisions. Practical ways universities, startups, and small teams can engage lawmakers beyond sending emails or reacting to crises. How policy choices around clinical trials, AI, global collaboration, and advanced therapies impact patients and the future of biotech. Tune in to learn how building authentic relationships with policymakers can demystify science, strengthen innovation ecosystems, and help move life-saving technologies from the lab to the people who need them most. Links: Connect with Srinu Sonti, JD, and check out Lewis-Burke Associates LLC. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out Pew Charitable Trusts. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

Where do scientific breakthroughs really begin, and how much space do we leave for curiosity, intuition, and creative thinking along the way? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by Auni Williams, PhD, a postdoctoral scholar at Penn State University, for a thoughtful and refreshing conversation about “night science.” Together, they explore the idea that behind every polished grant, publication, or protocol is a messier, more human process driven by curiosity, imagination, and the freedom to explore unconventional ideas. From historical examples of scientific breakthroughs to personal stories from the lab, this episode invites listeners to rethink how discovery really happens. In this episode, you’ll learn: What “night science” is and why embracing early, unpolished ideas is critical for innovation and discovery. How modern research culture can unintentionally suppress creativity – and what institutions and leaders can do to protect exploratory thinking. Why communicating science as a human, curiosity-driven process is essential for engaging both scientists and the public. Tune in to learn how making space for curiosity, creativity, and night science can reignite passion for research and lead to the next generation of scientific breakthroughs. Links: Connect with Auni Williams, PhD, and learn more about Penn State University. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn more about François Jacob, Barry Marshall, August Kekulé, Operation Everest, American Heart Association Funding, and Cormac McCarthy's essay. Listen to our previous episode with Walter Isaacson. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

What does it really take to modernize a tech transfer office and build innovation ecosystems that thrive outside the traditional coastal hubs? In this episode, host Patrick Reed, RTTP, is joined by Robert Lowe, PhD, CEO of TechPipeline, for a timely conversation on how tech transfer offices can evolve in a rapidly changing innovation landscape. From data-driven decision-making and intentional use of AI to workforce development and ecosystem-building beyond the coasts, this episode offers practical insights for university and industry engagement leaders navigating what comes next. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why “perfect is the enemy of good” when modernizing tech transfer systems, and how using the right mix of tools can improve outcomes. How tech transfer offices can leverage AI as a force multiplier while maintaining strong foundational skills. What smaller and mid-sized cities can do to build collaborative, high-impact tech transfer and startup ecosystems. Tune in to learn how a data-informed approach to tools, training, and ecosystem strategy can help tech transfer offices accelerate innovation and deliver greater impact wherever they’re located. Links: Connect with Robert Lowe, PhD, and check out TechPipeline. Connect with Patrick Reed, RTTP, and learn about IPX at Auburn University. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

How do you build a venture strategy that both delivers strong returns and meaningfully improves the lives of children and families? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Andrew Meadow, MBA, Founding Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Health Innovation Capital, for a thoughtful conversation about investing in pediatric and maternal health. Andrew shares the personal and professional journey that led him to focus his career on underserved pediatric populations, and why children are not just “small adults” when it comes to innovation, clinical development, and investment strategy. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why pediatric and maternal health remain some of the most underfunded (and high impact) areas in biotech. How venture funds can balance financial returns with real-world improvements in access, affordability, and quality of care. What entrepreneurs need to know to engage pediatric-focused investors and stand out in a competitive funding environment. Tune in to hear how purpose-driven venture capital can change the trajectory of healthcare innovation and why investing in children may be one of the most important bets biotech can make. Links: Connect with Andrew Meadow, MBA, and check out Health Innovation Capital. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

How can biotech teams move faster (and smarter) from preclinical research to human trials without sacrificing safety or rigor? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Todd Kilbaugh, MD, Founder of Pharos Biolabs and a physician-scientist specializing in anesthesiology, critical care, and pediatrics. Todd shares his journey from clinical medicine to biotech entrepreneurship and unpacks one of the industry’s toughest challenges: why so many promising therapies fail to translate from animal models to humans. Together, they explore how AI, advanced modeling, organoids, and more thoughtful use of non-human primates could reshape preclinical development and reduce costly failures. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the translational gap between animal models and humans remains one of biotech’s biggest bottlenecks, and how AI can help close it. How biomarkers, mathematical modeling, and digital twins can improve trial design long before a therapy reaches the clinic. What the future of preclinical development could look like with smarter integration of AI, organoids, and non-human primate studies. Tune in for a wide-ranging conversation on AI-enabled science, better trial prediction, and how biotech can rethink the path from discovery to patients. Links: Connect with Todd Kilbaugh, MD. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Doug Wallace, PhD. Learn more about TBI. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

Trying to form early biotech partnerships but unsure when to say yes, when to push back, or when to walk away? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, welcomes back Renee Williams, PhD, MBA, returning to the show as Chief Business Officer at Signify Bio. Drawing from her experience on both sides of the table (as a pharma dealmaker and now an early-stage biotech leader) Renee shares hard-earned insights on how founders can approach partnerships strategically without losing focus, time, or control of their company’s story. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to evaluate early partnership opportunities and decide which ones are worth your limited time, capital, and attention. Why focus is the most valuable currency for early-stage biotech, especially for platform companies facing constant “what else could this do?” questions. Practical guidance on MTAs, pilot studies, and proof-of-concept work, including how to structure collaborations so they move you closer to a real deal—not just more experiments. Whether you’re navigating your first pharma conversation or refining how you partner as a growing biotech company, this episode offers clear, experience-driven advice to help you build partnerships that accelerate progress instead of distracting from it. Links: Connect with Renee Williams, PhD, MBA, and check out Signify Bio. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out our previous episode with Renee. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

What’s really happening in biotech right now, and where should innovators and investors be paying attention? In this market update episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by guest host Travis Manasco, MD, for a candid conversation on the current state of biotech investing. Together, they unpack where momentum is building, where enthusiasm is cooling, and how founders, scientists, and investors should think strategically as the market finds its footing. From GLP-1s and AI to women’s health and preclinical challenges, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at today’s biotech landscape—just in time for JPM. In this episode, you’ll learn: Which biotech sectors are heating up and why areas like obesity, AI-enabled clinical trials, and women’s health are drawing renewed interest Why early-stage and preclinical innovation remains a tough funding environment, despite long-term opportunity How market signals like acquisitions and JPM dynamics may shape biotech strategy in the year ahead Tune in for an honest, insightful market conversation that cuts through the hype and helps you think more clearly about where biotech is headed next. Links: Connect with Travis Manasco, MD, and check out Solas BioVentures. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference 2026. Check out our previous episode with Travis on AI in Medicine. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

Want to come back from JP Morgan with more than just a stack of business cards? In this timely episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Chris Yochim, a longtime JP Morgan Healthcare Conference insider. With more than three decades of experience leading partnering strategy at AstraZeneca and Zeneca, Chris shares a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how the world’s most intense healthcare meeting really works—and how to prepare for it effectively. As JP Morgan approaches, Elaine and Chris break down what “success” looks like for different audiences, from academic tech transfer and startups to investors and large pharma. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to define “winning” at JP Morgan based on your role—academic, startup, investor, or industry leader. Why preparation, flexibility, and memorable first impressions matter more than a full calendar of meetings. Practical tips for pitching, following up, and building long-term relationships before, during, and after the conference. Whether this is your first JP Morgan or your tenth, this episode offers actionable advice to help you navigate the chaos, build meaningful connections, and turn conversations into real momentum. Links: Check out the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference 2026. Connect with Chris Yochim and check out NIIMBL and AstraZeneca. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out EBD Group, RESI, and the Guide to JPM'26 app. Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP and Dennis Purcell, MBA. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

How can universities become powerful engines of innovation, startups, and economic growth—especially in a challenging funding environment? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Kimberly Gramm, PhD, MBA, the David & Marion Mussafer Chief Innovation and Entrepreneurship Officer at the Tulane Innovation Institute and Managing Director of Tulane Ventures. Kimberly shares how Tulane is building a comprehensive innovation ecosystem—from early-stage programming and mentorship to venture funding—designed to help researchers, students, and founders translate discovery into real-world impact. Together, they explore what it takes to change institutional culture, scale innovation thoughtfully, and position universities as active investors in the future of biotech and healthcare. In this episode, you’ll learn: How universities can support founders and technologies across every stage of the innovation journey, not just at commercialization. Why mentorship, alumni engagement, and listening to stakeholders are critical to building sustainable innovation programs. How strategic venture funds and proof-of-concept investments can accelerate biotech spinouts and regional economic growth. Whether you’re a researcher, founder, or innovation leader, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how universities can step up, take risks, and help innovation thrive—even in uncertain times. Links: Connect with Kimberly Gramm, PhD, MBA, and check out Tulane Innovation Institute and Tulane Ventures. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out our previous episode with Kimberly. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

What if your alumni network could help fuel the next generation of biotech startups? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Evan Nicoll, MBA, and Patrick Hernandez of 1834 Ventures, a new investment fund created by Tulane alumni, for founders with Tulane DNA. They share how their alumni-powered model is helping to close regional funding gaps, strengthen emerging biotech ecosystems, and support founders through trust-driven, relationship-first investing. From navigating today’s tough fundraising climate to understanding what really catches an investor’s eye, this conversation offers practical lessons for founders, universities, and anyone building innovation communities. In this episode, you’ll learn: How alumni networks can become powerful engines for venture funding, mentorship, and deal flow. What investors are really looking for in early biotech pitches, and why trust, clarity, and curiosity matter more than perfection. Why founders should embrace relationship-building over rapid-fire pitching, and how regional markets like Louisiana can attract coastal investors. Tune in to discover how connection-driven investing is helping shape the next chapter of biotech growth across the Gulf South — and how you can be part of it. Links: Connect with Evan Nicoll, MBA, and Patrick Hernandez, and check out 1834 Ventures. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out Cadenza Bio and the book The Speed of Trust. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

What does the future of biotech look like when curiosity, not competition, leads the way? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, talks with Aziz Abadsafian, MBA, Technology Scout at Nissan Chemical America. Together, they dive into the “edges” of science — the more speculative world of embryology, longevity, and what Aziz calls the true frontier of biotech. Along the way, they explore how curiosity, relationship-building, and “night science” conversations can unlock unexpected opportunities in your career and in the industry. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the biggest biotech opportunities lie at the extremes – in aging, fertility, longevity, and neurodegeneration. How curiosity and genuine relationships lead to better collaborations than transactional networking ever could. Practical advice for scientists and students on finding your path, staying inspired, and building a career that aligns with what you’re good at AND what you love. Tune in for a thoughtful, funny, and wide-ranging conversation about discovery, imagination, and why the future of biotech will always belong to the relentlessly curious. Links: Connect with Aziz Abadsafian, MBA, and check out Nissan Chemical America. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out our previous episode with Cain McClary. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

How can biotech startup founders navigate the intersection of science, technology, and data to build truly durable companies? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, talks with Cain McClary, MD, Founder and Managing Partner of KdT Ventures, a seed-stage venture firm investing at the convergence of science and technology. A Tulane alumnus and “supply chain junkie,” Cain shares how curiosity, data-driven insight, and strategic storytelling can set biotech innovators apart. In this episode, you’ll learn: The biggest mistakes biotech startups make—and how to avoid them. Why understanding incentives, storytelling, and systems is key to scaling innovation. How AI, data ownership, and new consumer health models are reshaping the future of biotech. Tune in to discover how KdT Ventures is rethinking biotech investment—and what it takes to turn scientific insight into lasting impact. Links: Connect with Cain McClary, MD, and check out KdT Ventures. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn more about PathAI. Check out our fireside chat with Walter Isaacson. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

Are you tired of competition and struggling to find collaborators in biotech? In this episode, returning host Patrick Reed, RTTP, talks with Christiaan Engstrom, MBA, Founder and CEO of BLPN, a member-led club connecting life science dealmakers with one goal: helping each other succeed. Christiaan shares how BLPN has built a thriving community where collaboration, mentorship, and trust come first — creating opportunities that go far beyond business cards and conference booths. In this episode, you’ll discover: How a simple mantra — “Find Someone to Help. Repeat.” — is reshaping biotech networking. Why connection, not competition, is the key to sustainable industry growth. How leaders can strengthen regional biotech ecosystems and bring coastal innovation energy inland. Tune in to learn how genuine collaboration can transform biotech partnerships – and why the most powerful deals start with helping someone else. Links: Connect with Christiaan Engstrom, MBA, and check out BLPN. Connect with Patrick Reed, RTTP, and learn about Auburn University IPX. Learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and Tamika Jackson. Check out JPM, BioAlabama, and The Beautiful Way Foundation. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

What can today’s biotech innovators learn from the greatest thinkers in history? In this special episode, we’re bringing you a live recording from BIO on the BAYOU featuring a fireside chat between Elaine Hamm, PhD, and Walter Isaacson — renowned biographer of Steve Jobs, Jennifer Doudna, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and other groundbreaking innovators. Together, they explore the power of curiosity, resilience, and imagination in shaping scientific discovery. From the origins of creativity to the ethical challenges of AI and gene editing, this conversation shines a light on the shared traits that drive humanity’s boldest breakthroughs. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why history’s greatest innovators were powered by relentless curiosity — not just intellect. What resilience looks like across centuries, from Leonardo da Vinci to modern-day misfits shaping the future. How scientists, universities, and the public can rebuild trust, communicate science better, and rekindle a shared sense of wonder. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends science, storytelling, and the timeless human drive to explore the unknown — straight from the BIO on the BAYOU stage. Links: Connect with Walter Isaacson and check out his new book The Greatest Sentence Ever Written. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

Does networking stress you out? Are you having difficulty connecting with colleagues at conferences or partnering events? Mastering the art of genuine connection is essential to advancing your career and building your network. In this listener-favorite episode, James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and Elaine Hamm, PhD, dive deep into their personal strategies for networking success. With years of experience attending and producing biotech events, they share invaluable tips, insights, and even some humorous stories about their networking journeys—both the wins and the awkward moments. Whether you're an introvert looking for practical tips to step out of your comfort zone or an extrovert wanting to refine your approach, this episode offers something for everyone. In this episode, you'll discover: How to approach networking with authenticity, whether you're an introvert or extrovert. Tips on building genuine connections at biotech events and staying in touch after. Practical rules to position yourself to get the most out of networking, even if it's outside your comfort zone. Tune in to learn how to connect authentically, overcome social anxiety, and make the most out of your next networking opportunity. Links: Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn about James’ first communications role: EXTRA! Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.