Dream Big Dreams to Solve Big Problems: with Jon Hu, CEO and co-founder of Pepper Bio

This week I spoke with Jon Hu, CEO and co-founder of Pepper Bio, about his journey from pharma consulting and venture capital to founding a tech-enabled biotech company. Pepper Bio created an AI and machine learning platform accelerating drug discovery for untreatable diseases. In addition to the platform, Pepper is currently navigating their asset for liver cancer into phase 2 clinical trials. Jon highlighted the differences between tech and biotech, emphasizing the importance of dreaming big and aligning vision with employees. He shared insights on the importance of hiring, learning to learn, and overcoming challenges in transitioning from tech-enabled discovery to drug development. We also discussed Pepper Bio's computational platform, long-term strategy, and their Series A fundraising to support their clinical trial efforts. Jon’s personal story of family health challenges driving his passion for biotech underscored the company's mission to transform patient care.Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take ActionGet Jon's recommended book! What Do You Do With an Idea? New York Times best sellerLearn more about Pepper BioLink In with Jon!Connect with us!Link In with CarinaSubscribe here:AppleSpotifyGoogle PodcastRSS feedLearn more about Recruitomics ConsultingCheck out our reading listDownload our free startup resources guide to grow your biotech efficientlyIf you're on the job market, visit the Collaboratory Career Hub 00:00 Introduction to John Hu and Pepper Bio00:54 John's Early Aspirations and Career Path02:27 Founding Pepper Bio and Its Mission05:15 Tech vs. Biotech: Ambitions and Challenges10:42 Project Optimist and Pepper's Role11:53 Pepper's Computational Platform and Future Goals16:14 Navigating the Biotech Industry and Hiring Strategies33:35 Personal Motivations and Future Aspirations36:03 Book Recommendations and Closing Remarks