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

What do biotech boards want to see in a CEO—and what mistakes can quickly derail a company’s success? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Mark Corrigan, MD, one of the most experienced and respected leaders in the biotech industry. From shaping the development of blockbuster drugs to serving as CEO and board member for multiple companies, Mark has a unique perspective on the intersection of science, leadership, and strategy. He shares candid insights on what makes a strong CEO, the role boards should (and shouldn’t) play, and how to navigate today’s tough financing environment without losing sight of the mission. In this episode, you’ll learn: The key qualities that boards value most in biotech CEOs—and the red flags that raise concerns. Why humility, adaptability, and a clear value proposition are essential traits for leadership. How boards and CEOs can partner effectively when money is tight and timelines are long. Tune in to gain board-level insights into biotech leadership and decision-making that can help you shape your own path forward. Links: Connect with Mark Corrigan, MD, and check out Wave Life Sciences, AstronauTx, Silver Creek Pharmaceuticals, Ceretype Neuromedicine, and Cadenza Bio. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Listen to our previous episode on Building Biotech Boards. Check out The California Honeydrops and Willamette Valley Pinot. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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 healthcare investment banking put patients—not just profits—at the center of biotech deals? In this episode, host James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, speaks with Sam Libby, President and Managing Director of TCB Capital Advisors. Drawing from more than $20 billion in transactions across therapeutics, diagnostics, and digital health, Sam explains how TCB’s unique advisory model partners with companies before and after deals close. From growing up with therapist parents to founding a merchant bank, Sam shares how personal values and professional experience can come together to shape smarter strategies for healthcare innovation. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why patient-centered thinking belongs at the core of investment strategy. Common mistakes healthcare startups make when pitching to investors—and how to avoid them. The critical role of clinical data, mission alignment, and timing in building sustainable biotech companies. Tune in to learn how to navigate healthcare investments with purpose and ensure your biotech mission makes a lasting impact. Links: Connect with Sam Libby, and check out TCB Capital Advisors. Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn more about Clairity and Informuta. Listen to our previous episode on Drug Pricing and Accessibility. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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 leaders navigate the complexities of neurodegenerative research while tackling today’s funding challenges? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, welcomes Vikas Sharma, PhD, Chief Business Officer at QurAlis, for an insightful conversation on innovation, leadership, and fundraising in the biotech sector. Drawing from his extensive experience with ALS and neurodegeneration research, Vikas shares lessons on balancing science with business, navigating board dynamics, and finding creative approaches to raise capital. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why genetic insights are reshaping neurodegenerative research. How to creatively approach funding when investors are focused on lower-risk, later-stage opportunities. Practical strategies for balancing science, investors, and board relationships to drive biotech success. Tune in to gain actionable strategies and leadership lessons that can help you move your biotech forward with confidence. Links: Connect with Vikas Sharma, PhD, and check out QurAlis. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Jason Adair, MBA, and Kevin Eggan, PhD. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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 did a podcast that started as a simple experiment become a trusted voice in biotech conversations? In this special 100th episode, co-hosts Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, take a step back to reflect on the BIO from the BAYOU journey. From the early days of experimenting with format to connecting with some of the most influential voices in biotech, they share behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned, and how the podcast has evolved into a platform that bridges science, business, and storytelling. In this episode, you’ll hear: The origins of BIO from the BAYOU and how it found its unique voice in the biotech landscape. Memorable moments, favorite guest insights, and the biggest lessons learned over 100 episodes. A look ahead at what’s next for the podcast — including an exciting update from James at the end of the episode. Join us in celebrating 100 episodes of conversation, connection, and community in biotech — and get ready for what’s to come! Links: Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with other hosts Patrick Reed, RTTP, Sharon Courtney, Nicole Honoree, RTTP, Kaneisha Akinpelumi, and Carolyn Scofield, MPS. Connect with Adam Goodcoff, DO, Neil Greene, Tari Suprapto, PhD, James McLachlan, PhD, Travis Manasco, MD, Mike Rondelli, JD, MBA, Tre Braquet, Kylie Hovey, and Lee Hamm, MD. Learn more about Connect, The Study, and EXTRA! Listen to our previous episodes mentioned - linked here. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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.

Can artificial intelligence map your heart and help prevent strokes, dementia, and even death from cardiac arrhythmias? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, talks with Rob Krummen, JD, CEO of Vektor Medical, and Travis Manasco, MD, Principal at Solas BioVentures, about how AI is changing the game for diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders. They share how Vektor’s vMap technology — the “Google map of your heart” — pinpoints arrhythmia sources using standard EKGs, fitting seamlessly into existing clinical workflows. The conversation also dives into what investors look for in AI-driven health innovations and how startups can stand out in a crowded field. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why cardiac arrhythmias are more common — and more deadly — than most people realize. How vMap’s AI-driven insights can improve outcomes, reduce repeat procedures, and expand care to rural hospitals. The key elements investors want to see in AI healthcare pitches, from workflow integration to reimbursement strategy. If you’re interested in AI in medicine, medtech innovation, or how to pitch to venture capital, this episode delivers valuable lessons straight from the front lines of clinical care and investment. Links: Connect with Rob Krummen, JD, and check out Vektor Medical. Connect with friend of the show 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. Connect with vMap inventor David Krummen, MD, and Solas BioVentures co-founder David Adair, MD, MBA. Listen to our previous episode with Travis on Crafting a Pitch That Attracts Venture Capital. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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 companies stay resilient and competitive when public sector funding becomes unpredictable? In this episode, host James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, sits down with Adeyinka “Adey” Pierce-Watkins, MS, PMP—Director of Biodefense and Government Contracting at BDO USA—for a timely conversation on surviving and thriving in today’s evolving federal funding landscape. From defense contracts to international partnerships, Adey shares practical guidance for life science leaders aiming to tap into strategic public funding opportunities. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to identify and access alternative funding sources—including state, federal, and international opportunities. What biotech organizations need in place to be “government-ready” for grants, contracts, and urgent response funding. Why strategic planning, partnerships, and compliance infrastructure are essential to winning and executing federal awards. Whether you’re pursuing BARDA grants, entering international consortia, or rethinking your risk exposure, this episode offers actionable insights to help biotech innovators chart a smarter path forward. Links: Connect with Adey Pierce, MS, PMP, and check out BDO USA. Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn more about the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas, TEDCO, and the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine. Learn more about Flagship Pioneering, Andreessen Horowitz, Novartis, Johnson & Johnson, and Roche. Learn more about HERA, Horizon Europe, AMED, and A*STAR. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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 land a successful biotech partnership—and what makes a deal fall apart? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Renee Williams, PhD, MBA, Founder and Managing Partner of Williams Biotech Consulting and Independent Board Director for AGS Therapeutics. With experience across major pharma companies like Eli Lilly and Janssen, Renee shares hard-earned insights from the front lines of dealmaking. From communication missteps to finding the right partner, she explains how to navigate biotech partnerships with clarity, confidence, and strategy. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why overcommunication is key to every stage of the deal process. How to identify (and avoid) red flags in strategic partnerships. What scientists need to know to transition into biotech business roles. Whether you’re negotiating a licensing deal or dreaming of your first exit, this episode is packed with advice you won’t want to miss. Links: Connect with Renee Williams, PhD, MBA, and check out Williams Biotech Consulting and AGS Therapeutics. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn more about Eli Lilly and Janssen Pharmaceutical. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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 happens when patients can’t afford the medicine you’ve worked so hard to create? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Vinay Patel, PharmD—Chief Pharmacy Officer at Proactive MD and Founder of MakoRx—to unpack the hidden complexities behind drug pricing, access, and affordability. Together, they explore how traditional insurance models impact patient care, and what drug developers and startups need to know to ensure their therapeutics actually reach the people who need them. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) influence drug access—and what that means for your commercialization strategy. How cost-plus pricing models are changing the healthcare landscape. Key considerations for biotech innovators to ensure affordability, patient access, and long-term success. Whether you're developing a new therapeutic or trying to understand the real-world implications of drug pricing, this conversation offers a powerful look behind the pharmacy counter. Links: Connect with Vinay Patel, PharmD, and check out Proactive MD and MakoRx. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn more about The Study, Elaine’s wine bar. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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.

Wondering how to stand out in the crowded biotech world and build credibility that opens doors? In this episode, hosts Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, explore the power of personal branding for biotech professionals. Whether you’re a startup founder, academic researcher, or key opinion leader, your brand can shape your career, attract collaborators, and grow your influence. With real-world stories, practical tools, and some laughs along the way, Elaine and James break down how to craft and share a brand that’s both authentic and impactful. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to define your value proposition and align your voice with your mission. Tips for building an authentic online presence and using platforms like LinkedIn effectively. Why your personal brand is key to trust, visibility, and long-term leadership in biotech. If you’re ready to build your reputation, expand your network, and become a go-to expert in your space—this episode is for you. Links: Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Jane Muir, RTTP, James McLachlan, PhD, Lisa Morici, PhD, Heddwen Brooks, PhD, Sarah Lindsey, PhD, and Ashley Stahl. Learn more about The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, You Turn, and EXTRA! Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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 ready to pitch your biotech startup to investors but unsure what they’re actually looking for? In this episode, host James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, sits down with Travis Manasco, MD — Principal at Solas BioVentures, practicing ICU physician, and Tulane alumnus — for a clear-eyed look at what it takes to secure life science venture capital. From communicating clearly to avoiding common missteps, Travis offers practical advice that every founder should hear before stepping into a pitch meeting. In this episode, you’ll discover: The "goat, moat, float, and dote" framework Solas uses to evaluate investments. What makes an investor-ready pitch — and why focus matters more than ambition. How founders can build lasting relationships with VCs and avoid first-call deal-killers. Whether you're refining your deck or just starting your fundraising journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights to move your biotech forward. Links: Connect with Travis Manasco, MD, and check out Solas BioVentures. Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Penelope Manasco, MD, Elizabeth Chabe, MBA, Tari Suprapto, PhD, and David Adair, MD, MBA. Learn more about Francis Medical, I-O Urology, Vektor Medical, and OpenEvidence. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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.

Bridging the gap between academia and industry isn’t easy—but it’s essential for innovation. In this episode, hosts Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, explore how biotech startups and academic institutions can break down silos and build stronger partnerships. From shared resources and mutual funding opportunities to culture shifts and advisory support, they reveal how deeper engagement between innovation hubs and industry players can lead to better science, better business, and better outcomes. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why understanding each other’s goals and processes is key to successful startup–university collaborations. How universities can help startups find funding, credibility, and critical talent—and what startups offer in return. Actionable tips for building long-term, win-win partnerships that drive innovation forward. Whether you’re spinning out of a lab or investing in university research, this episode will give you new strategies to connect and collaborate with purpose. Links: Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development, the School of Medicine, and the National Primate Research Center. Connect with Katie Acuff, JD, MBA, Lauren Jardell, and Ellen Palmintier, JD, RN. Tune in to our previous episode on Boards of Directors and Scientific Advisory Boards. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. And click here to apply for a startup pitch slot. 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 a biotech leader battling overload, stress, or even burnout? In this episode, co-hosts James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and Elaine Hamm, PhD, sit down with returning guest Carlo Odicino, MBA, founder and CEO of One Team Partners, for a powerful and realistic discussion about navigating the pressures of leadership in a high-stakes industry. From battling overwhelming priorities to preserving your health and well-being while growing your business, Carlo offers hard-won strategies for turning chaos into calm and turning pressure into progress. In this episode, you’ll discover: The most common contributors to burnout for CEOs – and strategies to avoid them. Why self-care and delegation are essential for strong, sustainable leadership. How routines, healthy habits, and re-framing your choices can enable you to withstand stress and keep innovating. Get ready to lead with clarity, keep your cool, and chart a path forward—no matter what the market throws at you. Links: Connect with Carlo Odicino, MBA, and check out One Team Partners. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, 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 and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. And click here to apply for a startup pitch slot. 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.

Is your biotech startup feeling the squeeze of a tough funding environment? In this episode, hosts Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, have a candid, advice-packed discussion about how biotech founders can manage funding challenges, extend runway, and stay resilient when capital is tight. With practical examples and hard-earned insights, they explore strategies for leading lean teams, strengthening investor relationships, and building scrappy collaborations that move innovation forward—even in difficult times. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to build resilience and make smart trade-offs when resources are limited. The importance of transparency, adaptability, and mission-driven decision-making. Why now may be the best time to build partnerships, strengthen investor relations, and refocus on what matters most. Get ready to lead with clarity, keep your cool, and chart a path forward—no matter what the market throws at you. 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 more about Maykr, as well as The Study, Elaine’s wine bar. Check out previous episodes on Mastering Resilience and Building a Scientific Advisory Board and Board of Directors. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. And click here to apply for a startup pitch slot. 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 the culture you’re building is quietly holding back top talent? In this episode, hosts Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, sit down with Carlo Odicino, MBA—Founder and CEO of One Team Partners—to explore how unconscious gender bias affects team dynamics, pay equity, and innovation in biotech startups. Drawing from his experience working with high-growth companies, Carlo shares real-world insights and practical tools for identifying bias and fostering intentional, inclusive workplace cultures. In this episode, you’ll discover: How unconscious bias manifests in hiring, performance reviews, and leadership interactions. Strategies startups can use to identify pay gaps, support equitable leadership, and create feedback-safe environments. Why inclusive culture isn’t a “later” priority—and how getting it right early can reduce turnover and accelerate growth. From subtle labels like “bossy” to structural decisions that perpetuate inequity, this episode offers clear-eyed advice for founders and executives ready to build better biotech companies. Links: Connect with Carlo Odicino, MBA, and check out One Team Partners. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, 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 and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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 ready to make the most of your time at BIO 2025? In this episode, hosts Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, break down everything biotech leaders need to know about the spring conference season and how to strategically prepare for the BIO International Convention in Boston this June. From building long-term relationships and mastering partnering systems to smart use of AI and personal branding, they cover the real-world tips that will help you turn conversations into collaborations. In this episode, you’ll discover: What spring conferences revealed about current biotech funding trends—and how to adapt. How to prep for BIO 2025 like a pro, from building meeting packets to using AI to streamline follow-up. The overlooked value of sessions, receptions, and personal branding for biotech success. Whether you're heading to BIO for the first time or you're a seasoned conference veteran, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you stand out and connect. Links: Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out the conferences: JPM, BIO CEO & Investor Forum, BIO Europe, BioTrinity, and BIO International. Connect with Alexis Ducote, PhD, Carolyn Scofield, MPS, Kimberly Gramm, PhD, MBA, Tari Suprapto, PhD, Bruce Booth, PhD, and Carol Curtis, PhD. Learn more about Cadenza Bio, Otologic Pharmaceutics, Maykr, and The Bullpen. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. 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.