Moving Medicine Forward

In this episode of Moving Medicine Forward, Dr. Monica Shah, Chief Medical Officer at CTI and President-Elect of the American Heart Association's Greater Washington Region Board of Directors, reflects on why Wear Red Day holds personal significance to her.  Dr. Shah shares her path through cardiology and clinical research, the American Heart Association’s community impact across the region, and the organization’s priorities for advancing equitable care. She also shares her perspective on the future of cell and gene therapies and emphasizes the need for diverse representation in clinical trials. 01:08 Dr. Shah’s path through cardiology, research training at Duke, and career across academia, NIH, and industry.03:38 Early involvement with the American Heart Association and the fellowship grant that launched her research career.05:35 Responsibilities and priorities as President‑Elect of the AHA Greater Washington Region Board.07:00 Leadership development and building a diverse pipeline of future AHA leaders.08:10 Regional community impact: CPR education, school programs, nutrition initiatives, and policy advocacy.10:07 Translating the AHA’s national mission into local, lifesaving change - including DC’s CPR Act.11:32 Hypertension control and partnerships addressing nutrition security.12:26 Barriers to cardiovascular health and how AHA programs support access and education.13:22 COVID‑19’s long-term cardiovascular impact and AHA’s research and telehealth initiatives.14:52 Advocating for equitable representation in clinical trials.15:59 Emerging opportunities in cell and gene therapy and the importance of genetic testing.17:34 How public–private partnerships accelerate cardiovascular innovation.18:55 Advice for early-career clinicians and researchers, especially women and underrepresented groups.20:00 Identifying and nurturing community and clinical champions.21:52 Dr. Shah’s top priorities as incoming AHA president.23:05 How listeners can get involved and closing reflections on advancing heart health.

In this episode of Moving Medicine Forward, we talk with Earnestine Walker and Ali Manson of ZERO Prostate Cancer about their mission to ensure every man—regardless of background—has access to early detection, support services, and quality care. They break down Blitz the Barriers, ZERO’s major initiative targeting disparities in the hardest‑hit communities, and share how programs like ZERO360 and caregiver resources are transforming patient experiences.We also explore how policy advocacy, community partnerships, and patient voices are driving lasting change in prostate cancer outcomes nationwide. This is a powerful look at what equitable care truly requires—and how ZERO Prostate Cancer is helping move medicine forward. 00:00 – Welcome & IntroductionsMeet Earnestine Walker and Ali Manson of ZERO Prostate Cancer and hear about their roles leading patient programs, education, advocacy, and policy.01:00 – ZERO Prostate Cancer’s MissionA look at how advocacy, education, awareness, and support guide every decision—and why “for all” is the organization’s guiding star.02:00 – The Vision of Equitable CareDiscussion on what practical, equitable early detection and access look like in real communities.03:30 – Introducing Blitz the BarriersWhy ZERO launched its most ambitious initiative ever—and the staggering disparities it aims to confront.05:00 – The Cities Leading the Change A breakdown of the phased rollout across 12 high‑impact cities, from Baltimore to Appalachia.06:00 – Supporting Patients & FamiliesHow programs like ZERO360 and the Caregiver Retreats provide emotional, financial, and navigation support.08:00 – Navigating Financial BarriersThe role of patient navigation and how ZERO360 has delivered millions in financial assistance.09:30 – Advocacy in Action ZERO’s long history on Capitol Hill and recent policy pushes to expand access to free prostate cancer screening.11:00 – Empowering Patient VoicesWhy patient stories and lived experiences are essential to driving legislative change.13:00 – Closing the Gap for Black Men & VeteransHow ZERO Prostate Cancer is addressing the needs of the communities most disproportionately impacted.15:00 – Measuring Impact & Expanding ReachWhat ZERO has achieved so far—and how new data strategies will track long‑term change.17:00 – The Power of Partnerships From national organizations to local community groups, how collaboration amplifies ZERO’s equity‑driven mission.19:00 – What’s Next for ZERO Prostate CancerA look at future goals, including the life-saving vision behind Blitz the Barriers through 2025.

In this episode, host Jeremy Schrand welcomes Tim Schroeder, Founder & CEO of CTI, Jaqueline Aguiar, Managing Director of APAC/LATAM, and Dr. Ludwig Baumann, Global Regulatory Strategist, for an in-depth conversation about the Asia Pacific region’s growing impact on clinical research. Together, they explore how population diversity, regulatory innovation, and advanced therapies are shaping the future of clinical trials. The discussion highlights real-world examples, regional strategies, and the evolving role of technology and local expertise in bringing new therapies to patients worldwide.01:33 Welcome to the guests and setting the stage for the discussion.01:50 Key drivers behind Asia Pacific’s growth: globalization of research, population scale, rare disease focus, and the need for global market access.03:04 Panelists discuss the region’s diversity, infrastructure maturation, and regulatory harmonization efforts (ASEAN guidelines, mutual recognition).05:10 Addressing past concerns about research qualityin Asia Pacific and how they’ve been resolved.06:15 CTI’s strategic expansion into Asia Pacific:doubling of work, global footprint, and real-world examples from COVID-19 vaccine trials in Singapore and Vietnam.08:17 Operational hurdles: regulatory fragmentation, cultural and language diversity, and government investment in science and digital health.10:10 Managing regulatory variability: importance of local expertise, adapting to evolving guidelines, and leveraging relationships with regulators.12:10 Harmonization and efficiency: Singapore’s reliance model, Australia’s streamlined processes, and their influence as regional role models.14:26 Decentralized and virtual trials post-COVID: remote monitoring, reasons for choosing Australia (speed, tax credits) vs. China (population, cost).16:07 Executing complex, multi-country trials: pivotal registration studies, remote monitoring, and the importance of experienced investigators.18:05 Readiness for advanced therapies: academic medical centers’ preparedness, regulatory interest in cell and gene therapy, and the need for in-depth preparation for combination products.20:27 Regulatory flexibility: pre-meetings with authorities, addressing language barriers, and successful integration of Asia Pacific into global trials.22:01 Talent acquisition and retention: strategies for building consistent, high-quality teams across diverse countries.23:53 Patient recruitment: cultural nuances and ensuring data quality and patient retention.26:09 Looking ahead: the impact of AI, harmonization, and infrastructure development on accelerating clinical trial execution in Asia Pacific.28:13 Recent success story: FDA approval of a rare disease drug with global patient participation, highlighting Asia Pacific’s role.29:05 Closing thoughts: Asia Pacific’s leadership in innovation, regulatory adaptation, and inclusion of rare patient populations.

In this episode, host Jeremy Schrand welcomes Jamie Glavic, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications & Community Engagement and Program Lead of CTI Cares, and Kirsten Wellige, Associate Director, Clinical Project Coordination and Global Chair of the EU CTI Cares Committee, to discuss CTI Cares, CTI’s global employee-driven program that brings company values to life through community engagement, volunteering, health and wellness initiatives, environmental efforts, and cultural celebrations. The conversation highlights inspiring stories, regional initiatives, and the program’s growth, including the launch of the Belonging Committee and plans for the year ahead. 00:48 – Guests Jamie Glavic and Kirsten Wellige introduced. 01:09 – CTI CARES overview: Connecting company values to global and local impact. 02:11 – Program history: Shift to regional leadership approach. 03:16 – Why community engagement matters at CTI. 04:38 – Employee benefits: Personal fulfillment and professional growth. 08:09 – 2025 highlights: North America: CancerFree Kids challenge, school partnerships.Europe: Master Chef competitions, blood drives, cleanups, Universal Children's Day.11:26 – Regional flexibility and global sharing of ideas. 15:00 – Employee-driven activities and creative input. 18:55 – Program evolution: Belonging Committee and expanded APAC involvement. 20:38 – Hopes for next year: More global participation and new wellness initiatives. 22:34 – Closing remarks: CTI CARES as a vibrant, employee-powered community.

We are joined by two leaders from Aminex Therapeutics, Mark Burns, President & CSO, and Jeff Judson, VP of Strategic Planning & Investor Relations, to discuss the groundbreaking development of Aminex 1501, a novel cancer therapy that is transforming oncology. This conversation dives into the science behind this innovative therapy, its distinctive funding journey, the promising clinical trial results, and the collaboration with CTI. Listen now to explore the significance of FDA orphan drug designation and what it means for advancing innovative treatments for rare cancers. 00:10 Aminex 1501 is introduced, along with its mission to fight cancer by removing essential growth factors from tumors, stimulating the immune system 00:43 The drug’s effectiveness across a wide range of solid tumors, showcasing its tumor-agnostic approach 01:11 Mark shares the origin of Aminex, highlighting its unique funding by angel investors outside biotech and the absence of venture capital 02:01 Why they chose CTI as a partner: technical competence, responsiveness, and Midwest values 03:18 How the therapy removes polyamines from tumors, leading to profound immune responses in animal models 04:11 The team discusses receiving FDA orphan drug designation for neuroblastoma and ongoing pediatric trials at Penn State University 05:15 Insights into the treatment of six rare childhood cancers, with a focus on improving quality of life and minimizing side effects 05:56 Breast cancer and melanoma identified as promising indications for future focus, with neuroblastoma and others also in scope 06:23 Recap of clinical trial progress and milestones  07:19 Recognition of patients as heroes in advancing cancer therapeutics 08:03 How the therapy trains the immune system to recognize and attack cancer 08:57 The inspiration behind targeting polyamines and the development of DFMO and Aminex 1501 10:00 Anecdotes about early animal studies, dramatic tumor shrinkage, and the motivation to continue research 12:13 The team’s passion for improving patient outcomes and the importance of collaboration 13:00 Information for patients interested in joining trials, with details on upcoming clinics and how to find more information on clinicaltrials.gov 

In this special year-end episode of Moving Medicine Forward, host Jeremy Schrand sits down with CTI’s founder and CEO Tim Schroeder and President & COO Jon Koch for an in-depth look at 2025. From strategic goals and operational breakthroughs to cultural pillars and global challenges, Tim and Jon share candid insights on what made this year transformative for CTI. They also discuss major clinical milestones, regulatory shifts, and the innovations shaping the future—including AI, patient-centric trial design, and advanced therapies. Whether you’re a team member, sponsor, or industry partner, this conversation offers a front-row seat to the trends and strategies driving the next era of clinical research. 00:36 Tim Schroeder and Jon Koch join for a candid discussion on CTI’s journey through 2025. 01:00 Strategic goals, clinical milestones, and cultural highlights that defined the year. 01:39 Tim reflects on CTI’s long-term vision, process improvements, and technology adoption. 02:58 Balancing analytics-driven growth with personal and professional development. 04:00 Jon shares key initiatives—integrating clinical, site, and lab capabilities; EMA’s adoption of ICH E6(R3). 05:33 Nearly 20 successful approvals over two years underscore CTI’s mission. 06:08 Navigating new clients, acquisitions, and global disruptions while maintaining quality. 07:17 How CTI adapted to FDA leadership changes and global health trends. 11:38 Care, persistence, and community engagement as defining traits of CTI’s global team. 14:34 Persistence and stability in an industry with high stakes and long timelines. 17:08 Priorities include ICH E6(R3) implementation, global expansion, and AI-driven innovation. 20:22 Building the strongest management team for CTI’s next quarter-century. 22:03 Tim and Jon share messages of thanks and confidence in the future of medicine. 25:15 CTI’s commitment to advancing medicine and fostering a culture of care and resilience.

Courtney Cordaro, Director and Therapeutic Strategy & Innovation Lead at CTI, discusses the rapidly changing landscape of hematology clinical research. She shares insights on operational excellence and innovation, demonstrating why adaptability and precision are key to success in hematology clinical trials. 01:00 Courtney shares her background and passions. 02:29 The growing need for rapid innovation in hematology trials. 03:57 Unique challenges in hematology trials. 05:17 The evolving role of project management. 08:28 Strategies for maintaining compliance and data integrity. 10:46 Differentiators in CTI’s hematology research.  13:54 Future trends within the field. 15:19 The five pillars of success. 18:01 Advice for sponsors entering this space. 

Recorded live at American Society of Nephrology’s Kidney Week 2025, this episode of Moving Medicine Forward features Courtney Cordaro, Director of Therapeutic Strategy at CTI, and Morgan Terry, Site Director at Eastern Nephrology Associates. Together, they discuss what drives a healthy and productive partnership between clinical research sites and CROs, the critical role of communication, and how both sides can adapt to the evolving landscape of nephrology trials.  01:31 What defines a strong site-CRO relationship 01:49 Key elements of a successful partnership 02:32 The importance of consistency and communication in nephrology research 03:33 How CRO staff changes affect timelines and site efficiency 04:09 Common misconceptions CROs have about sites 05:23 Behaviors and practices that show a CRO’s understanding and build trust 06:31 How an effective CRO response can shape stronger partnerships 07:35 Why minimal turnover and familiarity with site processes are key to building long-term trust 09:05 Adapting to decentralized trials by leveraging strategies for remote monitoring and precision medicine 10:37 Highlighting collaboration and adaptability as keys to success 

In this inspiring episode of Moving Medicine Forward,Amanda King, Senior Clinical Scientist at CTI, discusses her remarkable journey from pediatric ICU nurse practitioner to leading-edge oncology researcher. Amanda shares how personal loss fueled her passion for patient-centered careand clinical research, and how her work at the NIH and CTI is shaping the future of medicine. From the complexities of oncology trials to the emotional weight of working with vulnerable patients, Amanda offers a candid look at thechallenges and triumphs of advancing therapeutic options. Whether you're in healthcare or simply curious about the human stories behind medical innovation, this episode is a must-listen.00:30 Meet Amanda King: her background and passionfor patient-centered care. 01:07 Amanda’s clinical roots in pediatric ICU andtransition to research. 02:00 Pursuing a PhD and discovering a love forclinical trials at the NIH. 02:34 The motivation behind Amanda’s shift toclinical research. 03:34 Why Amanda joined CTI and what drew her toindustry research. 05:10 Amanda’s role as a Senior Clinical Scientistand her impact on trial safety. 06:35 Deep dive into Amanda’s work at the NIH and theimportance of patient outcomes data. 09:21 Challenges in oncology trials: balancingsafety, complexity, and emotional toll. 11:39 The rewards of working in oncology and Amanda’spersonal connection to cancer research. 13:08 Advice for young people interested in clinicalresearch and the importance of mentorship. 15:14 Amanda’s vision for the future of medicine:innovation meets compassion. 16:10 Closing thoughts and how to stay connected withCTI.

Joel White, Owner of Marketcap Consulting, joins another episode to discuss the evolving role of Clinical Research Organizations (CROs). He shares the characteristics of a great CRO, how technology and decentralization are shaping the industry, and the strategic balance between speed, quality, and cost in clinical trials. Whether you're a sponsor, CRO professional, or simply curious about the clinical trial landscape, this episode offers practical wisdom and forward-looking perspectives on drug development and innovation.  00:31 Joel White returns to explore CRO excellence and innovation  01:00 Joel’s background and journey into the CRO industry  01:55 Origins of Joel’s LinkedIn quarterly recaps and their impact  04:10 Defining CROs and their evolving role in clinical trials  05:48 What separates great CROs from average ones, such as customer service and repeat business  08:59 Technology’s role in CRO operations and vendor management  11:29 Balancing speed, quality, and cost in fast-paced trials  12:45 The importance of culture and leadership in CRO success  13:57 Common misconceptions sponsors have about CROs  16:45 Decentralization in clinical trials, including adoption trends and cost tradeoffs  19:05 Evaluating therapeutic area expertise when selecting a CRO  20:46 The future of CROs, consisting of innovation, partnerships, and the potential impact of AI

Chuck Scheper, Board Chair at Bexion Pharmaceuticals, shares how a stage IV non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis at age 39 and a life-saving clinical trial led to his lifelong commitment to cancer research. He joins Tim Schroeder, CEO and Chairman of CTI, to discuss the founding of VaxCella, the evolution of cancer therapies, the importance of patient-centered research, and the role of collaboration in advancing drug development, highlighting resilience, innovation, and the impact of clinical trials. 

In this episode, host Jeremy Schrand is joined by Tim Schroeder, Chairman, CEO, and Founder of CTI, and Joel White, Owner of Marketcap Consulting, for a broad discussion on the clinical research industry. Topics include recent industry developments, biotech funding challenges, leadership in clinical trials, corporate citizenship, and predictions for future innovation.01:20 Tim shares insights on the current state ofthe clinical research industry, highlighting recent developments and a view toward stability and cautious optimism.02:36 Joe discusses macro trends shaping the clinical research landscape, focusing on biotech funding challenges and the impact on the industry.04:05 The conversation shifts to the pharma services sector, with Joe reflecting on the changing number of public companies and the influence of major investment firms.06:53 The conversation explores industry cancellation rates and repeat business, leading to a discussion on measurement differences and the challenges of consistent reporting.08:08 The role of leadership in navigating today's complex clinical trial environment is explored, emphasizing vision, talent retention, and cultural impact.13:08 Tim and Joel discuss corporate citizenship, leading to reflections on CTI’s evolution, community involvement, and the importance of sustainability.21:01 Exploring the potential influence of major retail companies on the clinical trial ecosphere, the conversation considers their resources and the challenges they face within the industry.22:34 Tim addresses therapeutic areas with recent surges in activity or innovation, prompting a discussion on oncology,neurodegeneration, and GLP therapies.29:00 Bold predictions shape the future of the clinical research industry, with forecasts pointing to a recovery in biotech funding and shifts in FDA approval processes.

In this special episode, host Jeremy Schrand sits down with Jill Brinck, Executive Director of CancerFree KIDS, and Dr. Genevieve Kendall, a CancerFree KIDS grant recipient and pediatric cancer researcher at Baylor College of Medicine. Together, they explore the power of early-stage research funding, the challenges and breakthroughs in treating childhood cancers, and the inspiring mission behind CancerFree KIDS. Dr. Kendall shares insights into her lab’s work on fusion-driven rhabdomyosarcoma and how innovative models like transgenic zebrafish are helping uncover new therapeutic targets. Whether you're a parent, a scientist, or someone passionate about making a difference, this episode offers a compelling look at how collaboration and curiosity are driving real change in pediatric oncology. Learn more - CancerFree KIDS home page Learn more about Dr Kendall’s research - Kendall Lab | Nationwide Children's Hospital Learn more about CTI - CTI - CRO Specializing In Clinical Research And Consulting  02:03 Jill Brink shares her personal and professional journey that led her to become Executive Director of CancerFree KIDS.  04:02 Why funding early-stage, high-risk research is essential for pediatric cancer, highlighting the lack of profitability and federal support in this space. 05:46 Securing funding for early-stage research presents major challenges, including the need for collaboration between scientists and business leaders.  07:06 How CancerFree KIDS selects research projects, outlining the role of their Scientific Advisory Council and the grant scoring process. 09:26 Success stories driven by CancerFree KIDS funding, including early support for clinical trials and advancements in flash proton therapy. 11:22 Dr. Genevieve Kendall explains the nature of fusion-driven rhabdomyosarcoma and why its aggressive behavior and lack of targeted therapies make it difficult to treat. 13:51 How the CancerFree KIDS grant supported a new partnership and provided seed funding to test a promising research idea. 14:50 The significance of identifying HAS3 as a novel target and how it opens new possibilities for treating rhabdomyosarcoma. 16:35 Dr. Kendall describes the role of transgenic zebrafish in her research and how they help uncover therapeutic targets through comparative oncology. 19:33 Both guests share what excites them most about the future of pediatric cancer research, including innovations in CRISPR and immunotherapy. 22:32 How CancerFree KIDS measures the long-term impact of its grants, citing follow-up funding, startup companies, and FDA projects. 24:19 Jill highlights impactful partnerships and community initiatives, such as Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving and the 100-Mile Challenge. 26:15 Details about the 100-Mile Challenge, including its structure and supporting events throughout September. 27:51 How CancerFree KIDS engages with families affected by cancer, ranging from support programs to events that honor children and their journeys. 29:51 The future direction of CancerFree KIDS, including expansion, collaboration, and advocacy efforts with the state of Ohio. 

In this episode of Moving Medicine Forward, host Jeremy Schrand welcomes Dr. Rich Curry to discuss how CTI is helping redefine what’s possible in clinical research. From the complexities of cell and gene therapy to the human stories behind the science, Dr. Curry shares how CTI’s expertise in rare diseases and regenerative medicine is accelerating innovation and improving patient outcomes. Discover how CTI’s patient-first approach and global regulatory insight are shaping the future of advanced therapies.01:03 Dr. Curry explains how his background in neuropsychology and oncology research led him to clinical trials and CTI. 03:08 Dr. Curry highlights why cell and gene therapy excites him, emphasizing its potential to transform treatment approaches. 04:20 He explains how CTI’s full-service research model supports complex, high-risk cell and gene therapy trials. 05:39 Dr. Curry describes the critical safety considerations in cell and gene therapy trials, particularly around immune system risks. 09:31 He explains how CTI approaches long-term follow-up and risk mitigation, sometimes monitoring patients for up to 15 years. 10:51 Dr. Curry shares how CTI stays ahead of global regulatory expectations through its dedicated regulatory and scientific affairs team. 12:03 He gives an example of how CTI helped a sponsor overcome regulatory challenges by identifying risk factors to ensure trial continuation. 13:16 Dr. Curry explains how CTI’s focus on regenerative medicine and rare disease expertise sets it apart in gene therapy support. 14:01 He discusses how CTI’s patient-first philosophy shapes trial design to improve patient experience and trial success. 14:54 Dr. Curry shares excitement for future innovations, especially in treating solid tumors, autoimmune diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. 17:00 He explains how CTI prepares for the next wave of therapies by building strong sponsor partnerships and providing excellent service.  

In this episode of “Moving Medicine Forward,” SavannahDoliboa, Chief Commercial Officer at CTI, shares her career journey and what led her to CTI, a company that combines the strengths of both large and mid-sized CROs. She reflects on the rewards of working with rare disease sponsors, CTI’s diverse client base, and its reputation for flexibility, expertise, and lasting partnerships. Savannah also highlights CTI’s global growth and commitment to advancing clinical research through innovation and collaboration, while navigating regulatory challenges and embracing trends such as AI and patient-centricity.00:52 Savannah shares her career journey and what led her to join CTI, highlighting her experience at both large and mid-sized CROs and how CTI offered the best of both worlds.02:39 She discusses what makes working with rare disease sponsors so personally and professionally rewarding, particularly the close connection to patient communities.03:57 Savannah outlines who CTI’s clients are, explaining that they range from biotech startups to large pharmaceutical companies, with a common thread of complexity and innovation.04:46 She explains why clients choose CTI, citing the company’s niche expertise, flexibility, and ability to retain skilled team members throughout long and complex trials.05:48 Savannah talks about how CTI’s agility helps meet client needs, especially when navigating regulatory challenges or changing trial strategies mid-study.06:33 She identifies current trends in the clinical research industry, such as AI and reducing patient burden, that are creating new opportunities for both CTI and its clients.07:51 Savannah shares how CTI’s global growth strategy aligns with its mission to go where clients need them most, supported by a strong track record of repeat businessand comprehensive services.08:56 From a commercial lens, she explains where CTI is headed in the next 3–5 years, emphasizing innovation, quality partnerships, and staying at the forefront of clinical research.09:33 She sums up why clients choose to work with CTI: a trusted mid-sized partner that delivers global reach, personalized service, and an extensive commitment tobringing treatments to market.

In this episode of “Moving Medicine Forward,” Audrey Davidow shares how her son’s diagnosis led to her co-founding the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation. She explains the rare genetic disorder, the foundation’s focus on research and family support, and major breakthroughs such as a gene therapy trial. Audrey also reflects on advocacy, leadership challenges, and the hope driving their mission forward. Support the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation by visiting PittHopkins.org or donating to the CTI Employee Fund. 01:09 Audrey Davidow shares how her son’s diagnosis led her to co-found the Pitt Hopkins Research Foundation. 02:45 She explains Pitt Hopkins Syndrome as a rare genetic disorder caused by TCF4 gene mutations. 04:35 Audrey recalls the early days of the foundation, driven by grief and an urgent need to act. 06:01 The foundation remains focused on research while still offering family support. 07:54 She highlights major breakthroughs, including a gene therapy trial. 09:41 Funding is directed only to research with a clear path to patient impact. 11:00 Support includes clinics, online communities, and global family conferences. 12:22 Advocacy efforts aim to boost diagnosis rates and raise awareness among medical professionals.  13:12 Challenges include translating science into treatments and navigating leadership without a science background. 14:18 Audrey stays motivated by her son’s resilience and the progress made. 15:31 How grassroots fundraisers have been highly successful. 16:54 Top priorities include launching the gene therapy trial and advancing other genetic treatments. 17:16 She encourages donations and everyday acts of inclusion for those with disabilities. 18:50 Audrey offers a message of hope, emphasizing that meaningful progress is underway. 

Alaa Assem, Managing Director for CTI in the Europe & MEA regions, joins us to discuss the evolution of clinical trials in the Middle East and Africa. With over a decade of experience in pharma and CROs, Alaa shares how CTI has built a strong regional presence, the impact of COVID-19, and why sponsors should consider the region for future trials.Topics Covered:CTI’s history and expansion in the Middle East & AfricaLocal expertise and regulatory evolutionVaccine research and biotech investmentGene therapy, AI, and the future of clinical trialsClick Here for more Info about CTI in the MEA RegionTimestamps:00:00 – Meet Alaa and his background00:56 – CTI’s regional roots and growth02:19 – Why local presence matters03:20 – Clinical research evolution in the region05:02 – COVID-19’s transformative impact06:44 – Vaccine research and biotech hubs08:33 – Advice for sponsors entering the region10:33 – Changing perceptions and realities12:52 – CTI’s readiness and expansion strategy14:06 – Future growth and innovation15:42 – Alaa’s excitement for the future of research

In this episode of “Moving Medicine Forward,” Tara Mink,expert in cell and gene therapy for more than 25 years, joins to discuss the science, promise, and challenges of CAR-T therapy. Tara explains how CAR-T works, its remarkable durability, and the side effects clinicians manage. She also discusses the future of gene therapy, barriers to access, and how the field is expanding into new disease areas. 01:05 Tara explains the CAR-T process, including how T cells are collected, genetically modified with a chimeric antigen receptor, expanded, and then reinfused into the patient.01:49 Discussion of CAR-T’s efficacy, described as both remarkable and durable. It’s positioned as a “one and done” therapy that typically requires no maintenance.02:30 Tara outlines common side effects like cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity, emphasizing their manageability with proper early intervention.03:18 The future of gene therapy is promising, with projections of 1,500 new therapies emerging by 2030, according to the Cardinal 2025 report.04:00 Key challenges include the high cost of research and treatment, limited insurance coverage, accessibility to treatment centers, and widespread misinformation in the medical community.06:37 Solutions include expanding treatment access, supporting outpatient models, partnering with third-party services, and improving insurance and patient education.09:25 Commercial hurdles are explored, such as the need for better technologies that reduce side effects and the importance of building provider confidence in administering CAR-T in community settings.10:08 An overview of where CAR-T is headed, including gastrointestinal conditions, prostate cancer, neuroblastoma, lung and breast cancer, and autoimmune diseases. 12:00 Tara shares how patient outcomes have dramatically improved over the last decade, with some blood cancer patients now living 25–30 years post-treatment.13:06 Encouragement for patients to seek expert guidance, confirm the treatment fits their diagnosis, and work closely with their provider teams for the best path forward. 

In this episode of “Moving Medicine Forward,” host Jeremy Strand sits down with Brian Lawrence, Chief Financial Officer at CTI, to explore how strategic financial planning is critical to advancing clinical trials, particularly in rare disease research. Brian shares insights on balancing profitability with purpose in one of the world’s most highly regulated industries, reflecting on early career decisions, global expansion, trial funding challenges, and the growing influence of AI in finance. 00:36 Brian shares how early interests in math and accounting, along with a few great mentors, led him into finance and the clinical research space. 02:17 Why Brian opted for a smaller accounting firm over a Big Four company and how that decision shaped his career. 03:16 How his love for process improvement and early experiences with digital transformation prepared him for the dynamic contract research organization (CRO) environment. 04:03 Brian discusses CTI’s evolution: growing four times in size, expanding globally, and staying true to its rare disease focus. 05:00 The challenge of maintaining profitability while upholding the highest standards in research and compliance. 06:00 Brian explains the hidden costs of operating globally, including banking, compliance, and cybersecurity.  07:10 Why financial planning is critical in biotech, where projects can be halted suddenly due to safety or funding concerns. 09:00How investment trends and economic shifts post-COVID have tightened budgets and forced CROs and sponsors to adapt. 10:00 Brian breaks down the financial implications of trial diversity, especially in rare diseases with complex study designs. 11:12 The role of AI and digital tools in modern CRO operations, and why CTI is taking a deliberate approach to adoption. 13:00 Brian sees technology as a way to eliminate low-value tasks and empower finance teams to focus on strategic insights. 14:00 Through initiatives like CTI Cares and “Mission Moments,” Brian explains how CTI connects internal teams to the bigger picture of patient impact. 

What makes a clinical trial site successful when managing complex transplant studies? In this episode of “Moving Medicine Forward,” host Jeremy Schrand is joined by Shawna Bredek, a 20+ year veteran in clinical trial operations, to explore how feasibility assessments shape the future of life-saving research. Shawna shares how her team evaluates sites, navigates post-COVID challenges, tackles regulatory hurdles, and builds lasting relationships that help bring rare disease treatments and transplant innovations to life. Whether you're working in clinical research or simply curious about medical breakthroughs, this episode offers a compelling look at the strategy behind meaningful science.  Show Notes: 00:36 Meet Shawna Bredeck, VP Global Site Activation & Clinical Document Management at CTI 00:52 Feasibility in the context of a clinical trial 01:18 Why choosing the right site and Private Investigator is critical 02:12 Post-COVID challenges: site fatigue, turnover, and timelines 03:34 Sponsors’ expectations vs. site realities 04:03 Asking tough feasibility questions upfront 05:17 Transplant-specific logistics: 24/7 coverage and site readiness 05:54 Navigating regulatory red tape across countries 07:28 How regulatory delays can stall important trials 08:12 Global differences: why it’s easier to start in Brazil than the US 08:54 Engaging rare disease sites through relationships and reputation 09:56 Partnering with advocacy groups for trial success 10:58 Shawna’s proudest career moment: a major transplant drug approval 12:21 The human side of transplant research 12:50 The shared mission of patients, sponsors, sites, and scientists 13:02 Final thoughts and how to connect with CTI