Life Sphere: Win the Race Against Time

In this exciting episode of the Life Sphere Podcast, Kathy Brunner hosts Sandra Torres, a notable figure working at the crossroads of technology, science, and healthcare. With over 12 years of experience, Sandra shares her journey from academia to the private sector, focusing on empowering Ph.D.'s and postdocs in their transition. The conversation delves into the critical role of diverse perspectives in healthcare innovation, especially in clinical trials and patient care solutions. Sandra highlights the benefits of inclusivity in research and development, from addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes to enhancing patient solutions. She emphasizes the importance of involving marginalized communities and a variety of perspectives beyond traditional categories, which leads to breakthrough innovations in healthcare. Additionally, Sandra discusses the challenges and opportunities in data management, particularly in the era of big data and AI, underscoring the need for quality data that represents all populations. The podcast touches on the impact of COVID-19 on telemedicine and decentralized clinical trials, pushing for more agile and inclusive practices in healthcare research and development. Sandra's insights provide a compelling look into how technology and diversity are driving forces behind more effective and equitable healthcare solutions.

In this episode of the Life Sphere podcast, Kathleen Brunner welcomes guest, Dr. Alicja Santos, CEO of Polonium Foundation. Together they delve into the realms of sustainability, accessibility, healthcare, and global scientific collaboration. The conversation kicks off by exploring the origins of the Polonium Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the scientific diaspora, with its roots tracing back to the discovery of the element polonium. Dr. Santos, who brings a wealth of expertise in healthcare and sustainability, highlights the evolving landscape of medicine, emphasizing the need for equitable, sustainable, and future-focused approaches. The dialogue addresses the challenges of talent migration and supply chain logistics in the context of healthcare, offering insights into reshaping the industry for a more accessible and eco-conscious future. Kathleen and Dr. Santos also touch upon the pivotal role of education, especially in STEM fields, and how organizations like Women In Bio are instrumental in empowering women and underrepresented voices in the scientific community. Today’s episode provides a thought-provoking exploration of crucial topics at the intersection of science, sustainability, and global healthcare access.  Dr. Santos holds a B.Sc. from Robert Gordon University, Scotland, and M.Sc and Engineering degrees from Lodz University of Technology, Poland. Her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Chicago was supported by an American Heart Association Fellowship, where she developed novel cancer metastatic blockers and cardiomyopathies diagnostics. Dr. Santos also held the presidency of Women In Bio (WIB) Chicago, where she currently serves as the Advisory Board Chair. 

This week on the Life Sphere podcast, we take a look back at some of the remarkable guests we've had on the show. And while it's impossible to truly pick a favorite guest or segment, we've curated some stand out moments for you to enjoy. Each guest has contributed to Life Sciences, their specific sector, our podcast and the community in countless ways and we're incredibly grateful for all of them. This episode is a "thank you" to the women of Life Sciences who have taken the time to share their story, expertise and experience with us. Join us as we delve into captivating conversations with leading women in Life Sciences, exploring groundbreaking advancements in pharmaceuticals, cell and gene therapy, regulatory practices, talent acquisition, the dynamic intersection of real estate and life science and much more!  These women have shown us that there is rarely one path to get to the career of your dreams. Often the road is winding and there are many obstacles to overcome. Since the start of Life Sphere we've spoken with trail blazers leading the way and showing all of us what is possible. Every guest has told us of their desire to help their peers whether as a mentor, advocate or simply as an example of what is possible. Our guests are leaders in their fields often making strides in male dominated industries, while also leading the way for other women to follow. They're making sure that if they are the first woman in the room and at the table, they aren't the last. Don’t miss this very special episode of Life Sphere. 

In this episode of the Life Sphere podcast, we take a look into the world of prosthetics with our esteemed guest, Dr. Sara Peterson. As the CEO and founder of Wise Women Parliament, Dr. Peterson is a true advocate, educator and certified prosthetist-orthotist dedicated to transforming the lives of women living with limb loss or limb difference. During this captivating conversation, Dr. Peterson sheds light on the crucial distinction between limb loss and limb difference, emphasizing the need for understanding and compassion in addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals in these situations. She passionately discusses the importance of providing holistic care, recognizing that true healing encompasses the physical, emotional and psychological aspects of an individual. With her expertise and firsthand experience, Dr. Peterson delves into the remarkable advancements in prosthetic technology that are revolutionizing the field. She highlights the incredible potential of sensor technology and artificial intelligence, which have greatly enhanced the customization and delivery of prosthetic devices. Through the use of 3D printing and data collection, prosthetics can be tailor-made and more affordable. Drawing upon her extensive network of healthcare professionals, Dr. Peterson emphasizes the interdisciplinary approach required to tackle the multifaceted challenges faced by patients.  Her organization, Wise Women Parliament offers an uplifting community and provides a safe and supportive space for women experiencing limb loss or limb difference. Through virtual and in-person meetings, Wise Women Parliament connects individuals across different states, fostering a sense of belonging, empowerment, and camaraderie.  Tune in to this inspiring episode as Dr. Sara Peterson enlightens us with her expertise, compassion, and dedication, and discover the transformative impact she and Wise Women Parliament are making in the lives of women navigating the realm of prosthetics and limb difference.  

In this episode of the Life Sphere Podcast, host Kathleen Brunner speaks with Michelle Johnson, the CEO of Metrum Research Group who has over 20 years of experience in strategy, operations, marketing and business management. Their conversation delves into leveraging data-driven strategies, embracing technology and digital transformation and staying ahead of technological advancements to drive innovation and remain competitive. They even end with some interesting book recommendation that bridge the gap between industry and entertainment.   Michelle highlights Metrum's commitment to science and developing open-source tools that make scientific content freely available to the community. She also emphasizes Metrum's multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving and its ability to adapt and serve customers by taking different perspectives into account. The discussion emphasizes the impact of digital transformation in the Life Sciences industry and the opportunities it presents for Metrum and their customers. The discussion also focuses on the importance of democratizing and standardizing data to enable better decision-making in drug development. Kathy and Michelle further discuss the balance between the pressure to deliver therapies quickly and ensuring accuracy and quality.    Metrum Research Group is a decision informatics company that helps decision-making teams take a quantitative approach to drug development. They hold a unique position at the intersection of science, technology, and data, and they are dedicated to transforming biomedical decision-making to improve health effectively and efficiently for all. 

Join host Kathleen Brunner in a another episode of the Life Sphere Podcast as she engages in an enlightening conversation with Melissa Singer Weiss, Principal at Stevenson Search Partners. With nearly 15 years of experience in the Life Sciences industry, Melissa shares her invaluable insights on talent acquisition, company building, and the integration of innovation.Melissa unveils the distinctive approach of Stevenson SearchPartners, emphasizing the significance of cultivating enduring relationships withclients and candidates. She highlights the strategic methods employed todevelop long-term partnerships and offer invaluable guidance throughoutindividuals' careers.Exploring the convergence of science and technology, Melissasheds light on how Life Sciences companies are embracing artificialintelligence and digital innovation. She addresses the challenges of sourcingexperienced talent in these rapidly evolving areas, drawing intriguingparallels between talent matching and the intricate pieces of a puzzle.The discussion delves into the strategic aspects of talentacquisition at different company growth stages. Melissa emphasizes thecriticality of strong leadership, effective communication skills, and a solidreputation in attracting and assessing top-tier talent. Furthermore, sheunderscores the transformative power of diversity of thought and the inclusionof diverse candidates in driving innovation and seizing market opportunities.As a Principal at Stevenson Search Partners, Melissa draws uponher extensive Life Sciences experience to advise organizations on attractingtop executives for critical leadership roles. From Pre-Series A ventures toestablished life sciences companies, she serves a broad range of clients acrossscience, development, and business. Don't miss this captivating conversationthat uncovers the art of building Life Sciences companies, nurturing talent,and embracing innovation.

In this episode of the Life Sphere podcast, we are privileged to have Elina Lavit, VP of Business Development at OncoNano Medicine, as our guest. Elina brings over 19 years of leadership experience, having held pivotal roles in organizations spanning start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations. Her expertise encompasses diverse therapeutic areas such as oncology, surgery, cardiology, and neurology, making her insights invaluable.With a background in economics and biology, Elina offers a unique perspective on the dynamic intersection of medicine and business. Join us as we delve into Elina's fascinating career path, from her beginnings as a medical representative to her current role driving business development and quality assurance. Elina shares her deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities present in today's ever-evolving medical landscape. She discusses the transformative work her company, OncoNano Medicine, is undertaking to address one of the most significant problems in oncology. Their cutting-edge solutions are accelerating the science and expediting therapies to patients in need.Tune in to this enlightening episode as Elina Lavit provides profound insights into the race against time in oncology, the complexities of medicine today, and the remarkable solutions that are shaping the future of healthcare. 

Welcome to  another episode of the Life Sphere podcast with Kathy Brunner. In this episode, we are delighted to have Savanah L. Saldaña-Shumaker, M.S., an accomplished NMR Chemist at the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences and remarkable entrepreneur. Savanah's expertise lies in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy within the Division of Preclinical Innovation's Analytical Chemistry Core. Moreover, she is the co-founder of two successful startups: SCS Laboratory Solutions, Inc. and Nazte Beauty, LLC.Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through Savanah's career, from her early aspirations as a ballerina to her current roles as a chemist and visionary entrepreneur. In a thought-provoking conversation with our host, Kathy Brunner, Savanah skillfully bridges the gap between the worlds of startups and chemical safety and sustainability. She sheds light on the vital importance of these principles, showcasing their transformative impact on creating safer skincare products for consumers.Furthermore, Savanah emphasizes the profound connection between chemical safety and patient care. By advocating for responsible chemical handling and championing sustainable practices, she reveals how these elements play a pivotal role in enhancing patient outcomes.Tune in as we uncover the inspiring journey of Savanah L. Saldaña-Shumaker—an extraordinary chemist, entrepreneur, and advocate for chemical safety and sustainability. Get ready to embark on an enlightening journey as we explore the fascinating realms of science and entrepreneurship.

On this episode of the Life Sphere podcast, host Kathleen Brunner talks with Marnie Smith, Senior Director of Quality at Network Partners, about her career journey from aspiring doctor to engineer and how it led her to work in the medical device industry. Kathleen and Marnie discuss the role of quality in improving patient outcomes and emphasize the importance of not overcomplicating it. They also delve into the impact of digital transformation on quality, including Quality 4.0, and highlight the need to bridge the gap between software engineers and quality engineers. They further discuss how the pervasiveness of computer applications and the shift to Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) is affecting validation requirements and requiring greater resources to maintain compliance. Finally, Kathleen and Marnie consider possible solutions, from partnership opportunities to a move towards forward-thinking, while maintaining GxP best practices and bringing safe products to patients. With over 15 years of medical device experience, including design, project management, supplier quality, and manufacturing impacts on quality, Marnie's extensive background provides support and leadership to Network Partners and their clients.

In this episode of the Life Sphere podcast, host Kathleen Brunner speaks with Juliette Vandenbroucque, a Senior Director of Business Development at a leading digital innovator in clinical research. With her extensive international experience spanning PR, scientific communications, global medical affairs, and clinical research, Juliette shares her unique perspective on the intersection of business development and innovation in the life sciences industry.Juliette shares her insights into the challenges and opportunities of bringing new therapies to market in various therapeutic areas, including oncology, ophthalmology, neurology, and rare diseases. She also discusses her work with leading pharma companies and biotech startups, including her involvement in three IPOs, over 15 product launch strategies, and two new manufacturing site inaugurations.

In this episode of the Life Sphere podcast, we explore the economic and social impact of drug development and the potential solutions that technology can offer. Our guest, Dr. Dawn Bell, brings her extensive experience in buy and sell-side BD&L, portfolio strategy, R&D, and commercialization to discuss the challenges of getting drugs to market. Our other guest, Kathy, brings her expertise in technology to the conversation, discussing how data acquisition and patient stratification can be optimized through technology to accelerate access to life-saving medicines. Dr. Bell shares her insights on the practical considerations of risk and financial investment in drug development, and the importance of bringing discovery to commercialization to best serve the patient. Join us as we delve into the complexities of drug development and how technological innovation can help overcome the barriers to getting the right drugs to the right patients.

In this installment of the Life Sphere podcast, Kathleen Brunner, the host, engages in a professional conversation with Divya Gowdar, a seasoned Quality and Regulatory Professional with a broad range of experience across multiple product portfolios in both small and large Medical Devices and Combination Product Organizations.Divya's unwavering commitment to enhancing patients' quality of life propelled her to establish NubGenix Consulting, which is passionately dedicated to making a difference in the quality of patients' lives. Kathleen and Divya delve into the merits of taking a proactive approach to regulatory requirements, emphasizing the importance of quality and getting it right the first time.Furthermore, the discussion highlights an exceptional, cost-free resource that is available to assist firms in managing regulatory requirements while also exposing the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in life sciences, including the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to provide solutions to patients more quickly.Divya's philanthropic mindset and dedication to giving back are also discussed, with a particular emphasis on the significance of promoting science and math education early on in the schooling of young girls and encouraging them to pursue careers in STEM.Divya Gowdar, the CEO and founder of NubGenix Consulting LLC, has a demonstrated track record of achievement and successful contribution in quality management systems, end-to-end product development lifecycle, risk and process management, quality compliance, and manufacturing operations in compliance with US FDA and other international regulations. Her firm offers services such as the development and implementation of Quality Management Systems (QMS), establishing regulatory, quality, and compliance strategies for product launch, and streamlining workflows such as Audit and Inspection Management, Post Market Surveillance, and more.

In this episode of the Life Sphere Podcast, host Kathleen Brunner interviews Christina Aon, an accomplished pharmaceutical professional. The discussion delves into Christina's illustrious career trajectory, tracing her roots in dietetics and traversing through her extensive experience in the industry. The conversation sheds light on the significance of education and creating awareness among the youth regarding the industry, alongside examining the recent advancements in stem cell therapy and their transformative impact on the lives of patients.  Christina Aon is a pharmaceutical professional with 25+ years of international experience across GSK Pharma, GSK Vaccines, Abbott Laboratories, and Quebec SMEs. Her expertise includes cross-cultural learning and development, competency models, manufacturing process improvement, sales, marketing, and logistics. She holds a BSc. from McGill University, a Six Sigma GreenBelt from the University of St-Louis, and an International Executive MBA from the Louvain School of Management. Christina's accomplishments include leading large-scale pharmaceutical projects and facilitating the successful merger of GSK Vaccines Japan and Daiichi Sankyo. Prior to becoming the Director General of CERASP, she served as the Global Development & Learning Director for GSK.

In this episode of the Life Sphere podcast, listen to Renee Stewart, Co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Levolta Pharmaceuticals, as she shares her journey and expertise in the life sciences industry. Renee oversees the pre-clinical small molecule program and patent portfolio at Levolta and is also involved in investor and strategic engagement. As a leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives through her involvement with Women in Bio, Renee sheds light on the importance of supporting the next generation of women in the industry. She also discusses the innovative treatment of osteoarthritis being developed at Levolta and the challenges of getting it right the first time given the high cost of pharmaceutical development. Join host Kathy and Renee as they delve into these important topics and share insights on the future of the life sciences industry.

On this episode of Life Sphere we welcome guest Lynn Dickey, PhD. Lynn has an extensive background leading and managing research and development activities across functional groups in product and technology development with a focus on plant made pharmaceuticals. Dr Dickey, was previously the VP of Research and Technology at Biolex Therapeutics. Dr. Dickey oversaw the development of the Lemna plant based core technology including genetic engineering, bioanalytics, product development and design of the aseptic biomanufacturing format. She continued her work with this technology at Synthon Pharmaceuticals as the VP of R&D and General manager of the US Bioproduction site. Prior to Biolex, Dr Dickey was a research assistant professor in the Department of Botany at North Carolina State University, where she LED research programs focused on the molecular biology of gene expression in transgenic plants. 

Susan Stipa is the Executive Vice President of Public Relations at CG Life. She has a robust and varied career in Life Sciences that has included roles in areas such as engineering, finance, regulatory, manufacturing, healthcare and currently public relations. Susan is a creative at heart with a highly technical background and education. She believes it is important for Life Sciences experts to communicate the technical side of the industry to the public and thinks data is the way to reach more people and keep the focus on the patient.  In this episode of the LifeSphere podcast, Kathy and Susan discuss the current digital transformation taking place in medicine, how it is accelerating the rate at which we get therapies to patients, and how our collective standards will change as a result. 

Ina Sargen is a Senior Vice President at Colliers International. She has over 25 years of commercial real estate experience with a strong corporate client base through her landlord representation, tenant representation, and advisory service assignments, focusing on women-owned/women-led business and the Life Science industry. Ina specializes in advising women business leaders with their real estate decisions and strategies. She is an active member in The Forum of Executive Women, serving on the Programming Committee, a Board Member of the Lower Merion Historical Architectural Review Board and the Vice President for her local Home School Association.  In this episode of the Life Sphere podcast, Kathy and Ina discuss the intersection of Real Estate and Life Science and the opportunities and challenges it presents. 

Nancy J Kelley, JD, is a nationally recognized executive who has driven key strategic initiatives in science and medicine for over 20 years. She has a deep understanding of the healthcare, life science and research fields and has in-depth knowledge of the related legal, business, government, non-profit and academic sectors in New York City and across the country. Ms. Kelley's prior leadership history includes work in scientific institutions, life science companies and life science real estate development. She is a Founding Member of NYC Builds BIO+. She is a member of the Founding Leadership team of the international scientific project GP-write and the associated Center of Excellence for Engineering Biology, and helped to launch the Biodesign Challenge. Ms. Kelley was the Founding Executive Director of the New York Genome Center and a lead executive in the development of the East River Science Park (now, Alexandria Life Science Center) in Manhattan. She has overseen major development projects for clients such as Harvard's McLean Hospital, NIH, Johns Hopkins, and MIT. In this episode Kathy and Nancy discuss Life Sciences Real Estate, Digital Transformation, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and how a straight line is not always the best path. 

Audrey Greenberg is the Co-founder, Chief Business Officer and Board Member of The Center for Breakthrough Medicines. Audrey’s area of expertise is in capital structure, business formation, acquisitions, strategic planning and tactical execution. Audrey’s deep industry experience includes biotechnology, real estate, pharma services, and financial services.Prior to starting The Center for Breakthrough Medicines, Audrey spent several years in investment banking, public accounting and private equity having worked at some of the largest asset managers in the world with AUM exceeding $100 billion. Audrey is passionate about supporting her community and serves on several non-profit boards including the King of Prussia Business District and is currently an Emissary for Select Greater Philadelphia, a division of the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce responsible for attracting business to Greater Philadelphia.Audrey was recently selected by Philadelphia Magazine as one of the top trailblazers in Biotech and was featured on the cover of Main Line Today’s Power Women edition. Audrey has an MBA from The Wharton School and is a registered CPA in Illinois.In this episode Kathy talks with Audrey about creating a world class Biotech Hub in Cellicon Valley, Startup Tactics and the Future of Medicine

Oxana K. Pickeral, Ph.D., MBA, is an accomplished technology executive with over 25 years of experience in healthcare and the life sciences, spanning from her work on the Human Genome Project to bioinformatics R&D and clinical trials innovation, to advanced analytics and patient engagement technologies. Prior to becoming the President and CEO of Sparta Systems, Dr. Pickeral was the Global Segment Leader for Healthcare and Life Sciences at AWS where she oversaw the AWS portfolio of technology and consulting partners with specialized offerings and innovative technology tools relevant to BioPharma, Genomics, Medical Device, Payers, Providers, and Agriculture, world-wide. Dr. Pickeral holds a Ph.D. in Human Genetics and an MBA in Finance from Johns Hopkins University.In this episode Kathy caught up with Dr. Oxana K. Pickeral while she was at Interphex to talk about Quality 4.0, Digital Transformation, Connected Life Sciences and improving patient outcomes.