Episode 138: Building Biotech Across Borders – Translational Science, Hearing Loss, and the Reality of Drug Development

What does it take to move a scientific idea from the bench to patients, especially in some of biotech’s most challenging therapeutic areas? In this episode, Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Gareth Willis, PhD, COO of Otologic Pharmaceutics and CEO of Exosla Therapeutics, for a candid conversation about translational science, biotech leadership, and the realities of drug development. Drawing from his experience across academia, Big Pharma, and startups, Gareth shares lessons from working in the biotech ecosystem, leading complex biologics programs, and developing therapies for hearing loss and tinnitus. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why translational science and patient impact became the driving force behind Gareth’s move from academia into biotech. How emerging technologies like AI are reshaping drug discovery and development timelines. What separates successful preclinical programs from the ones that fail, and why patient-centered thinking matters from day one. Tune in to learn how biotech leaders are navigating the highs and lows of drug development while working to bring meaningful therapies to patients with unmet medical needs. Links: Connect with Gareth Willis, PhD, and learn about Otologic Pharmaceutics and Exosla Therapeutics. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Life Science Courses from Gareth: Pharmaceutical Portfolio Strategies: Governance and Portfolio Management Advanced Due Diligence in Pharmaceuticals Pharmacology Essentials Training: Understanding Pharmacology in Drug Development Mastering Development and Regulatory Strategies in Cell Therapy Learn more about Elaine’s wine pub, The Study. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. 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.