In this enlightening episode of the RealPharma Podcast, hosts Ian Wendt and Dr. Nari Oh sit down with Dr. Steven King, a luminary in the field of ethnobotanical research and sustainable pharmaceutical development. Dr. King, currently serving as the Chief Sustainable Supply, Ethnobotanical Research, and IP Officer at Jaguar Health, shares his remarkable journey from a young adventurer in the Amazon rainforest to a pioneering figure in the integration of traditional botanical knowledge with modern medicine.

Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of ethnobotany, exploring how Dr. King's lifelong passion for plant-based healing has led to groundbreaking developments in the pharmaceutical industry. Discover the story behind the Croton lechleri tree, popularly known as the Dragon's Blood tree, and how its unique properties have been harnessed to create an FDA-approved medication derived from this Amazonian marvel.

Dr. King offers insights into his early experiences living with indigenous communities in South America, learning about their traditional uses of plants for medicine, and the ethical considerations involved in bringing these ancient practices into the global market. We discuss the importance of sustainability and respectful collaboration with local communities, emphasizing the crucial balance between conservation and commerce.

This episode also touches on the broader implications of Dr. King’s work, from his contributions to the Healing Forest Conservatory to the role of bioethics in the commercialization of traditional knowledge. As the conversation unfolds, we explore the exciting future of plant-based therapeutics and the potential for ethnobotanical research to address some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.

Tune in for a captivating discussion that spans decades of exploration, scientific discovery, and cultural exchange, highlighting how ancient wisdom can inform and transform modern healthcare.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ethnobotany

02:04 Biocultural Diversity and Pharmaceutical Development

13:20 The Croton lechleri Tree and its Medicinal Uses

15:59 Ethnobotanical Research vs. Traditional Drug Development

21:39 Intellectual Property and Benefit-Sharing

24:27 Ethical and Sustainable Practices in Working with Indigenous Communities

28:27 Respecting Indigenous Knowledge and Rights in Plant-Based Medicine Development

34:03 The Financial Benefits of Commercializing Plant-Based Drugs for Indigenous Communities

36:23 The Potential Therapeutic Applications of Psychedelic Research

Resources:

• Dr. Steven King - LinkedIn
• One River: Explorations and Discoveries in the Amazon Rain Forest
• Plants, People, and Culture: The Science of Ethnobotany

In this episode of the Real Pharma Podcast, we delve into the intricacies of effective executive communication with Dr. Laura Sicola, a renowned expert in leadership communication and cognitive linguistics. Dr. Sicola has spent over two decades transforming top-level executives into confident, inspiring leaders. Her unique approach, grounded in cognitive linguistics, empowers professionals to communicate their passion and expertise effectively, ensuring they get the buy-in they need for the results they want.

Join us as we explore these topics and more, providing valuable insights for pharma professionals and anyone looking to enhance their executive communication skills. Dr. Sicola's expertise offers a roadmap to becoming a more effective and inspiring leader.

Chapters

00:00:00 - Introduction to WIFM: What's In It For Me?

00:00:34 - Real Pharma Podcast Introduction

00:01:02 - Introducing Dr. Laura Sicola

00:02:37 - Welcome and TEDx Talk Discussion

00:03:51 - Defining Linguistics

00:04:41 - Importance of How You Say It

00:05:52 - The Myth of Content vs. Delivery

00:07:01 - The Linguistic Glass Ceiling

00:09:06 - Transitioning from Technical Expertise to Leadership

00:11:04 - Your Work Speaks for Itself, But Not for You

00:12:24 - Developing Leadership Skills

00:13:07 - The Challenge of Self-Awareness

00:15:33 - Recording Yourself for Self-Diagnosis

00:17:16 - Impact of COVID on Communication

00:18:48 - Basic Skills for Effective Communication

00:20:14 - Executive Presentations: What's In It For Them?

00:23:05 - Seeking Constructive Feedback

00:25:27 - Common Reasons for Seeking Coaching

00:27:05 - The Expert's Curse

00:29:37 - The Gift of Clear Feedback

00:30:39 - Proactively Seeking Feedback

00:32:14 - Questions to Ask for Constructive Feedback

00:35:01 - The Importance of Diverse Feedback

00:36:20 - Communicating Complex Data Effectively

00:37:04 - The Role of Slide Design in Communication

00:40:13 - The Value of Interpretation and Insights

00:41:17 - Two Versions of PowerPoint: Pre-Read and Presentation

00:43:08 - The $200 is $200 Rule

Resources

Find Dr. Laura Sicola on:

• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• laurasicola.com
• Speaking To Influence
• TEDx Talk

Summary

Ilisa Bernstein, a senior Vice President at the American Pharmacists Association, discusses the history and current landscape of drug importation policies with a focus on Florida's program.

Safety concerns, supply chain issues, and intellectual property rights are key considerations. The impact on the Canadian drug supply and the transparency of imported drugs for consumers are also discussed. Manufacturer concerns regarding rebates and discounts, as well as potential oversupply and export restrictions, are highlighted. The conversation explores the complexities and concerns surrounding drug importation programs. It discusses the mechanisms that manufacturers may use to control drug importation, such as restricting volume or increasing prices. The potential impact on the drug supply in Canada and the need for policies to protect it are also examined. The logistical challenges at the border and the vulnerabilities in the drug supply chain are highlighted. The importance of maintaining patient confidence in drug quality and the risks associated with personal drug importation are discussed. The conversation concludes by considering alternative solutions to lower drug prices and the inspiration drawn from historical figures.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction of Ilisa Bernstein

01:19 Background on Drug Importation

08:21 Safety Concerns

10:04 Supply Chain and Drug Source

14:58 Transparency and IP Issues

20:57 Consumer Transparency and NDC Numbers

21:10 Intellectual Property Concerns

22:59 Challenges and Points of Contention

25:12 Manufacturer Concerns: Rebates and Discounts

28:06 Oversupply and Export Restrictions

29:09 Mechanisms to Control Drug Importation

30:39 Policies to Protect Drug Supply in Canada

31:12 Logistical Challenges at the Border

33:07 Vulnerabilities in the Drug Supply Chain

35:03 Maintaining Patient Confidence in Drug Quality

36:31 Risks Before the Border

38:01 Complexities and Concerns for Community Pharmacists

41:31 The Future of Drug Importation Programs

44:00 The Motivation Behind Drug Importation Programs

46:01 Exploring Other Solutions to Lower Drug Prices

48:19 The Illegality of Personal Drug Importation

49:05 Balancing Cost Savings and Patient Safety

50:02 Inspiration from Historical Figures

Resources:

• Ilisa Bernstein

• American Pharmacists Association

• The Partnership for Safe Medicines

Summary

In this episode, Kristiaan Rawlings discusses the 2024-2025 Commercial Market Update and Salary Guide produced by EPM Scientific. The life sciences sector remains resilient due to aging populations, scientific advances, and robust investment. Hiring practices and compensation are influenced by these factors across the Americas, Europe, and APAC regions. The hiring focus has shifted from life-threatening diseases to more common health issues, such as dermatology and respiratory diseases. The most in-demand roles include marketing, commercial operations (salesforce effectiveness, commercial analytics, and training), and sales. Market access roles have seen less demand. Despite the availability of talent, salaries have remained high or even increased. In this conversation, Kristiaan Rawlings discusses the current trends in the life sciences job market, specifically in the commercial operations field. He explains the increase in demand for talent, the impact of title deflation, and the rise in salaries. He also highlights the regional differences in job opportunities, with a shift towards the East Coast of the United States. Additionally, he touches on the importance of executive presence and the return of in-person networking events. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the life sciences job market.

Chapters

00:00 High Demand for Marketing Roles

04:26 Focus on Core Areas with Existing Blockbuster Products

05:53 Sought-After Skills for Commercial Operations and Product Launches

13:54 Challenges with LinkedIn Applications and Fake Job Postings

24:25 Selective Market Based on Therapy Area and Experience

24:51 The Three Pillars of Focus: Salesforce Effectiveness, Commercial Analytics, and Training

25:21 High Demand for Talent in Incentive Compensation, Analytics, and Competitive Intelligence

26:17 Sales Roles in High Demand During Product Launches

26:46 Quiet Market in the Field of Market Access

27:14 Salaries Holding Strong or Increasing Despite High Supply of Talent

32:30 Geography Becoming Less of a Factor in Salary and Opportunity

41:08 High Demand for Medical Affairs and Health Economics

44:01 The Importance of Executive Presence and Networking for Career Success

Resources

• Kristiaan Rawlings - LinkedIn

• 2024/2025 EPM Commercial Update and Salary Guide

Summary

In this episode, hosts Ian Wendt and Dr. Na-Ri Oh , and guest Kira Dineen discuss the intersection of genomics and healthcare. They explore the concept of personalized medicine and how advancements in genomics are revolutionizing healthcare. Kira shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her DNA Today podcast. The conversation delves into the technology behind personalized medicine and the challenges of building comprehensive genetic databases. The ethical considerations of genomics, including access to information and the potential misuse of genetic data, are also explored. The episode concludes with a discussion on the need for ethical frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements in genomics. The conversation explores the controversial topic of gene editing, particularly the use of CRISPR technology. The hosts discuss the ethical considerations and the choice of genetic targets for editing. They also touch on the accessibility and long-term consequences of CRISPR. The conversation then shifts to the cost of treatment and the role of genetic testing in drug development. The potential of AI in genetic research is explored, as well as the future of personalized medicine. The episode concludes with a discussion on professional motivation and the importance of networking.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kira Dineen and the Intersection of Genomics and Healthcare

02:07 Genomics and Personalized Medicine

04:13 Kira Dineen's Personal Journey and the DNA Today Podcast

08:08 The Trend Towards Personalized Medicine in Biopharma

10:11 The Technology Behind Personalized Medicine

12:39 Building Databases and Overcoming Barriers

15:18 Ethical Considerations in Genomics

20:39 Ethics and the Use of Genetic Information

24:06 Ethics Keeping Pace with Technological Advances

25:44 Managing Ethical Considerations in Genetic Research

27:21 Controversial Gene Editing

28:18 Choosing Genetic Targets

29:10 Ethical Considerations

29:44 Accessibility of CRISPR

30:13 Long-Term Consequences of CRISPR

32:51 Healthcare Equity and Cost of Treatment

34:25 Cost of Genomic Sequencing

35:22 Genetic Testing and Drug Development

38:13 Role of Genetic Testing in Clinical Trials

42:20 AI in Genetic Research

46:34 Future of Personalized Medicine

49:56 Professional Motivation and Networking

Resources:

• Kira Dineen, MS, LCGC, CG(ASCP)CM (LInkedIn, Twitter)
• DNAtoday.com
• Breath from Salt (DNA Today author interview Episode #147)
• Maury Povich interview on DNA Today
• Patient Empowerment Program: A Rare Disease Podcast

Join us on a deep dive into the world of Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR) with the remarkable Iris Tam, PharmD, a luminary in value-based evidence generation within the biopharma industry. In this episode, our hosts Ian and Na-Ri explore with Iris the critical role of HEOR in transforming today's pharmaceutical landscape, from drug development to global marketing strategies and beyond.

Unpacking the complexities of HEOR, they delve into its definition, significance, and the evolving importance of this field in aligning drug development with payer expectations and patient outcomes. Iris shares invaluable insights on the key elements that payers scrutinize in HEOR studies, and the strategic considerations essential for successful global product launches.

Ethical considerations in HEOR research also take center stage, highlighting the responsibility of ensuring integrity and patient-centricity in evidence generation. For professionals eager to make their mark in HEOR or advance their careers, Iris offers sage advice, emphasizing the need for robust data, the value of learning from post-mortems, and the art of using failures to forge successful future strategies.

This episode is not just an exploration of HEOR's impact on healthcare but a guide to understanding the challenges of demonstrating product value and the crucial role of user adoption. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, Iris's journey and insights offer inspiration and guidance for navigating the complexities of HEOR in the biopharma industry.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction of Iris Tam

• 02:08 Definition and Significance of HEOR

• 04:07 Evolution and Increasing Role of HEOR

• 07:49 Components of HEOR: Health Economics and Outcomes Research

• 10:26 Impact of HEOR on Drug Development and Marketing Strategies

• 25:46 Key Elements for Payers in HUR Studies

• 38:47 Considerations for HUR in Global Launches

• 41:35 Ethical Considerations in HUR Research

• 46:41 Skills and Experiences for Success in HUR

• 51:49 The importance of user adoption

• 52:01 Learning from post mortems

• 53:01 Using failures to inform future strategies

• 53:55 The challenge of proving product benefits

• 54:23 Closing thoughts and advice

Resources:

• Iris Tam

• Coeus Consulting Group

• ISPOR HEOR Resources



• ISPOR Top 10 HEOR Trends

Dive into the world of fertility with Shelley Bailey, the visionary founder and CEO of Famlee Fertility, on our latest episode. Discover Shelley's personal journey that led to the creation of Famlee, a company revolutionizing the fertility landscape with its home-based testing and clinical treatments aimed at empowering women to understand and enhance their fertility.

In this enlightening conversation, Shelley unravels the role of Famlee in supporting women through their fertility treatment journey, debunking common myths and misconceptions that surround fertility. Learn about the holistic approach and tailored treatment plans Famlee offers, designed to balance hormones and improve fertility from the comfort of home.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into overcoming fertility challenges, the importance of personalized care, and the future of fertility treatments. Whether you're navigating your own fertility journey or simply interested in the innovations transforming women's health, this episode promises to enlighten, inspire, and empower.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Shelley Bailey and Famlee Fertility

04:02 Shelley's Personal Journey and Inspiration for Starting Famlee

09:47 The Role of Famlee in the Fertility Treatment Journey

14:38 Positioning Famlee in the Healthcare Landscape

17:10 Common Myths and Misconceptions about Female and Male Fertility

23:39 The Journey with Famlee: Holistic Approach and Treatment Plan

32:47 Challenges Faced as a Founder in the Fertility Sector

42:15 Future Plans and Expansion for Famlee

43:49 Mentors and Inspiration in Shelley's Entrepreneurial Journey

Resources:

• Famlee Fertility

• Shelley Bailey, CEO and Founder of Famlee

• **Understanding Fertility: The Basics** - HHS Office of Population Affairs: Explore fundamental aspects of fertility, including menstrual cycle and fertility awareness.

https://opa.hhs.gov/adolescent-health/reproductive-health/understanding-fertility-basics

• **RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association**: Offers detailed information on the female reproductive system and resources for managing infertility stress and relationships. Support groups and professional help are also available.

https://resolve.org/what-are-my-options/understanding-infertility/

• **Female Fertility: Why Lifestyle Choices Count - Mayo Clinic**: Provides insights into how lifestyle choices impact fertility and offers practical tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle to improve fertility.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/in-depth/fertility/art-20047584

• **Fertility.com**: Contains comprehensive information about female fertility facts, age, and the reproductive system, including the menstrual cycle and the male’s role in conception.

https://us.fertility.com/female-fertility

• **Your Fertility**: Offers a range of fact sheets on topics like the effects of caffeine, alcohol, and smoking on reproductive outcomes, understanding ovulation, and the role of exercise in improving fertility.

https://www.yourfertility.org.au

• **Infertility 101 from RESOLVE**: Provides an overview of infertility basics, along with support options, including online communities and advocacy information.

https://resolve.org/what-are-my-options/infertility-101/