OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast

In this episode of OnPoint, Scott hosts seasoned Medical Affairs leader Paul Minne to explore one of the industry's most persistent challenges: defining and measuring impact. With over two decades of experience leading field medical teams across biotech and pharma, Paul brings bold ideas and practical solutions for how Medical Affairs teams can move from traditional activity metrics to truly influencing and measuring changes in clinical practice. Together, they discuss: Why defining “impact” in Medical Affairs remains elusive The problem with traditional metrics like call volume and KOL reach Moving from tactical execution to strategic influence Early indicators that signal meaningful changes in clinical practice Why activity and outcomes aren’t mutually exclusive—and how they can align The role of AI in scaling insight generation and field strategy Building purpose-driven MSL teams that create measurable value Connect with Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulminne/ OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms, including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence   00:00 – Introduction: Why Measuring Impact Still Matters 02:05 – Why Is Impact So Hard to Define in Medical Affairs? 08:00 – The Real Purpose of Medical Affairs 14:10 – Beyond Metrics: What Should We Really Measure? 18:30 – A Hybrid Model: Activity vs. Strategic Impact 26:20 – How MSL Teams Can Shift Clinical Beliefs 38:00 – AI, Alignment & the Path to the Third Pillar

Medical Excellence is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of high-performing Medical Affairs organizations—but what does it mean, and how can it be implemented in practice? In this episode, Scott Thompson is joined by two industry leaders, Michael Kahn and Chris McNabb, who bring hands-on experience in building and leading Medical Excellence functions at Spark Therapeutics and Bayer, respectively. Together, they discuss: • Defining Medical Excellence and how it differs from medical operations • The role of Medical Excellence in enabling field teams and improving strategic alignment • Key lessons learned from building and scaling Medical Excellence functions • Balancing innovation (like AI) with foundational operations • Organizational structure, stakeholder engagement, and team development • The future of Medical Affairs and where Medical Excellence fits in Connect with Michael on LinkedIn:   / kahnmichael   Connect with Chris on LinkedIn:   / chris-mcnabb-ph-d   OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs.  OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms, including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence  [00:00] – Introduction & Meet the Guests [02:30] – Defining Medical Excellence: More Than Operations [06:00] – Building the Function: Standardization, Scope & Strategy [12:00] – Gaining Buy-In & Aligning Stakeholders [20:30] – Balancing Innovation with Operational Foundations [31:00] – Team Structure: Big vs. Small Organizations [46:30] – The Future of Medical Affairs & Closing Thoughts

Following a standing-room-only session at the 2025 MAPS Annual Meeting, Acceleration Point CEO Scott Thompson sits down with three industry leaders who are shaping how Generative AI is being applied inside Medical Affairs today—not in theory, but in practice. Wendy Fraser (Merck), Annamaria Crisan (Pfizer), and Rishi Ohri (Astellas Pharma) share real-world examples, critical lessons, and hard-won truths from piloting Gen AI across Field Medical teams, Medical Information, HEOR, and Omnichannel. They discuss personal productivity, process improvement, clinical risks, compliance pitfalls, and how to build trust—both with your technology and your teams. If you're exploring how to scale Gen AI within a regulated environment, this is your roadmap. 🔹 Key Takeaways: • Start with Low-Risk, High-Impact Use Cases • Human-in-the-Loop is Essential for Quality & Trust • Prompt Engineering is a Leadership Priority • Compliance Buy-In Starts with Demonstrating Quality • Modular, Fit-for-Purpose AI Beats “One Size Fits All” Connect with the guests on LinkedIn:  Wendy Fraser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-fraser-86316710 Rishi Ohri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rishiohri Annamaria Crisan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annamaria-crisan-b0018a17 [00:00] Why Gen AI? Why Now? [04:00] Defining the Problems to Solve [08:00] Three Buckets of Use Cases [12:00] Real Examples: What’s Working (and What’s Not) [28:00] Risks, Trust & Compliance in a Regulated World [36:00] Scaling Gen AI Without Breaking Workflow [47:00] Upskilling & What Leaders Are Learning Next  

In this episode of the OnPoint Podcast, Scott Thompson welcomes Teri Michelini of Sanofi and Parker Richardson of Astellas Pharma to explore the evolving relationship between Medical Affairs and Commercial teams in pharma. As traditional silos and firewalls give way to transparency and strategic orchestration, what does true collaboration look like—and you get there without compromising compliance? Teri and Parker draw from decades of experience to share real-world strategies for harmonizing roles, aligning messaging, and leveraging omnichannel innovations. From cross-functional planning and trust-building to creating scalable, tech-driven journeys for HCPs, this episode offers powerful insights for any medical leader looking to bridge the gap. 🔹 Key Takeaways: • Why compliance shouldn’t mean silence • Practical frameworks for strategic alignment • Real-world examples of collaborative success • Reframing trust, risk, and accountability • How omnichannel strategy unifies—not divides—teams Connect with Teri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-michelini-aaa9204 Connect with Parker on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parkerrichardson OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs.  OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence  [00:00] Breaking Down the Firewalls [06:00] Redefining Collaboration with Guardrails [12:00] Strategy Before Execution [20:00] From Ownership to Orchestration [30:00] Enabling the Shift: Mindsets, Metrics & Micro-steps [38:00] Personal Growth to Lead the Change

In this episode, Scott Thompson sits down with Rachel Couchenour, a seasoned medical affairs leader with deep experience navigating the unique challenges of small and emerging biotech companies. Together, they dive into what it really means to be a team of one—or a small team—in a resource-constrained organization. Rachel shares wisdom from her journey transitioning from big pharma to startups, highlighting both the missteps and the wins. From prioritizing medical affairs activities to building strategic partnerships and creating cross-functional alignment, she offers invaluable insights for professionals looking to make an impact in lean, high-stakes environments. Whether you're contemplating a move to a smaller company, building out a medical affairs function from scratch, or looking to do more with less, this episode is full of practical advice and inspiring takeaways.   Key Themes: Prioritizing when everything feels urgent Building scientific narratives before deploying field teams How small teams can drive omnichannel impact Stretching budgets through smarter agency collaboration Leading without structure—and loving it Redefining career growth beyond traditional ladders   Bonus: Learn about “Flossy the Focused Flamingo” and how stuffed animals are shaping team culture!   Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelcouchenour/   OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms, including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel.   [00:00] Introduction and Guest Welcome [00:47] Navigating Small and Emerging Biotechs [02:10] Key Pillars of Medical Affairs [04:06] Challenges and Strategies in Small Teams [08:03] Effective Stakeholder Engagement [10:59] Resource Management and Prioritization [32:13] Career Development in Small Organizations

In this episode of the OnPoint Podcast, Scott Thompson sits down with Vicky Jones, Global Head of Field Medical at Annexon Biosciences. With a ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicky-jones-dvm-36707119/⁠   OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs.   OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms, including the ⁠Acceleration Point YouTube channel⁠. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence #FieldMedical   [00:00] Welcome & Introduction [01:00] Vicky Jones' Journey into Medical Affairs [05:30] The Evolving Role of Field Medical & MSLs [10:40] Structuring & Growing a High-Impact MSL Team [20:15] Key Skills & Leadership Lessons for Medical Affairs [35:00] Final Takeaways & Advice for Medical Affairs Professionals

In this OnPoint podcast episode, host Scott invites Brant, Head of Field Medical at Mallinckrodt, to discuss the complexities of Insights Generation in medical affairs. Brent emphasizes the importance of strategic planning, collaboration, and the evolving role of AI in gathering, analyzing, and reporting insights. Key topics include the necessity of having a dedicated Insights Lead, the significance of multi-channel data collection, and the impact on organizational efficiency. The episode also highlights the value of continual training, feedback loops, and showcasing the tangible results of insights. Brant and Scott share actionable strategies for improving insight programs and preparing teams to adapt to changing technologies and methodologies. Connect with Brant on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brant-jarrett-636a1435/ Resources mentioned in this episode: MAPS Webinar: Putting the AI into Innovative Medical Affairs Teams: https://medicalaffairs.org/putting-ai-innovative/ Blog: Three Skills Medical Insight Leads Must Master: https://accelerationpoint.com/3-key-skills-medical-insight-leads-must-master/ OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence #FieldMedical #InsightGeneration   [00:00] Welcome and Catching Up [00:57] Introduction to Insight Generation [02:22] Challenges in Insight Generation [05:56] Strategies for Effective Insight Collection [19:32] Continuous Improvement in Training [20:13] The Paradox of Practice [25:17] AI's Impact on Insights [30:56] Maximizing the Value of Insights

In this episode of the OnPoint Podcast, Scott interviews Wendy Fraser about her experiences and insights in scaling the Medical Excellence function at Merck. They discuss the scope of responsibilities, the complexities of managing global medical affairs, and the innovative practices that enable scientific exchange excellence. Wendy shares the importance of building cross-functional relationships, employing consultative approaches, and leveraging technology to improve efficiency and effectiveness. The conversation also touches upon the challenges and successes of 2024, future directions for Medical Affairs, and the critical role of continuous engagement and feedback from global teams. Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-fraser-86316710/ OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence   [00:00] Introduction and Welcome [00:14] Understanding Merck's Medical Excellence [04:01] The Role of Scientific Exchange [08:02] Balancing Global Consistency and Local Autonomy [10:18] Building an Inspired Shared Vision [17:45] Experimentation and Safe to Fail Culture [31:46] Future of Medical Affairs and MSLs

In this episode of the OnPoint Podcast, Scott interviews Matt Nelson, Head of Global Medical Excellence and Innovation at Amicus Therapeutics. Matt shares his journey in leading change within organizations, starting from his tenure at Biogen, to his current role at Amicus. They discuss the importance of establishing foundational systems and procedures before implementing broader strategic initiatives. Matt shares challenges faced during these transformation phases, such as resource allocation and gaining alignment within the team. The conversation also touches on the significance of measuring the impact of medical affairs activities and maintaining strategic focus to drive organizational success. Matt emphasizes the need for effective communication and building champions within the team to support change initiatives. Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-nelson-pharmd OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #medicalexcellence [00:47] Matt Nelson's Background and Career Journey [05:28] Challenges in Implementing Change [09:22] Foundations for Organizational Change [13:46]Measuring Impact and Strategic Alignment [19:54] Building Champions and Effective Communication [33:46] Personal Insights and Future Goals [41:59] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Pascal Vande Gucht, Medical Affairs Digital Lead at UCB, joins Scott Thompson to discuss the critical steps Medical Affairs teams must take to stay ahead by 2030. Pascal shares his vision on leveraging digital technologies, data analytics, and insights to enhance customer engagement, streamline operations, and improve patient outcomes. Learn how Medical Affairs can implement omnichannel strategies, measure impact, and drive clinical practice change to remain a key strategic pillar within pharma. Connect with Pascal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pascal-vande-gucht OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. #MedicalAffairs #DigitalTransformation #2030Vision #DataAnalytics #MedicalExcellence

Omnichannel expert Justin Kulovsek joins Scott Thompson and shares how Medical Affairs teams can simplify their approach when it comes to Omnichannel. Learn how to effectively engage HCPs, KOLs, and other key audiences without overcomplicating your efforts.   Justin shares practical tips on leveraging existing tools and creating personalized, impactful content across channels like email, CRM, social media, and more. Whether you're just starting your omnichannel journey or looking to optimize your strategy, this episode offers valuable insights to drive medical excellence.   Connect with Justin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinkulovsek or visit: https://www.omnichannelconsultant.com   OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. #MedicalAffairs #Omnichannel #HCPengagement #MedicalExcellence #DigitalStrategy

Blueprint Medicines' Kjersten Teeter and Scott Thompson discuss the power of operational and strategic reporting in Medical Affairs. Discover how to go beyond the basics of metrics and create impactful narratives that align data with organizational goals. Kjersten shares her expertise on improving operational efficiency, measuring true impact, and driving organizational excellence with insights on leveraging AI and advanced analytics.   Connect with Kjersten on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kjersten-teeter-21526b59/   OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. #MedicalAffairs #OperationalExcellence #StrategicReporting #AI #MedicalOperations

Scott speaks to Shruthi Menon and Akansha Kumar from Acceleration Point's Social Listening and analytics team about their groundbreaking research on using social media to map patient journeys in rare diseases. They discuss their ISPOR poster presentation on Cushing's Syndrome, highlighting the power of Social Listening in uncovering patient insights that traditional methods might miss. Connect with Shruthi and Akansha on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/shruthi-menon-288b3b97   https://www.linkedin.com/in/akansha-kumar-pharmd-msba-b1417911a View ISPOR Poster: https://bit.ly/4dkjB6T OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms and on the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence #SocialListening #RareDiseases  

Scott speaks to Stacey Gorski, Head of Medical Excellence, U.S. Oncology, at AstraZeneca. They discuss key aspects of onboarding new team members and why it’s so crucial for Medical Affairs teams to master. Connect with Stacey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-gorski/ OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence

Scott speaks to Michael Kahn, Senior Director, Medical Affairs Operations Leader, at Spark Therapeutics. Their conversation focused on Medical Operations, Medical Excellence, change management and mentoring as a component of leadership.  ⁠ Read The First 90 Days ⁠ (recommended by Michael) Connect with Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kahnmichael/ OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms, including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel.   #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence

Scott speaks to Michelle Warner, an Independent Consultant and former Director at GSK for over 25 years. They discussed how Medical Affairs teams have a lot to gain by bringing patient insights to the forefront. Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-warner-5b172420/⁠ OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms, including the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence  

Scott speaks to Lori Long, US Field Medical Excellence Lead, Specialty Care, at Sanofi. They discussed creating harmony and coordination across field teams and scaling processes across the organization. Connect with Lori on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-long-pharmd-95349218 OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms and on the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence

Scott speaks to Donna Holder, Executive Director, Head of Digital Strategy and Innovation at Daiichi Sankyo. They discussed the role of Digital, criteria working with a technology partner, using AI for analysis and key skills needed to get into Medical Affairs leadership. OnPoint: The Medical Excellence Podcast, delivers insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs. OnPoint is available on several podcast platforms and on the Acceleration Point YouTube channel. #MedicalAffairs #MedicalExcellence https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnaholder/  

Join Acceleration Point’s Co-CEO Scott Thompson for insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs.

Join Acceleration Point’s Co-CEO Scott Thompson for insightful conversations on the most pressing issues facing top Medical Affairs professionals. Listen to stay ahead of industry trends and be inspired by leaders shaping the future of Medical Affairs.