She Leads Biotech

Finding Your Path in Biotech with Connie ChangCareers in biotech rarely follow a straight line.In this episode of She Leads Biotech, we speak with Connie Chang, Chief Operating Officer of ONL Therapeutics, about a career that has spanned big pharma, academia, and emerging biotech, and how each step has shaped the way she leads today.Connie shares how early career decisions don’t always define where you end up, and why sometimes “the career picks you” rather than the other way around.We explore the reality of moving between very different environments, from highly structured global organizations to small, fast-moving biotech companies, and what it really takes to adapt and succeed in both.This conversation also highlights the importance of community throughout your career, the role academia plays in driving innovation, and the personal side of leadership, including navigating family decisions, career risks, and the pressure many women face as they progress into senior roles.A thoughtful and honest discussion on building a career, leading with intention, and continuing to grow, even when you’re already at the top.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:30 How Connie Found Biotech04:00 Harvard, Community, and Early Influences06:30 Big Pharma, Academia, and Connecting the Dots10:00 Taking Career Risks and Moving to Michigan14:30 ONL Therapeutics and the Mission Behind the Science18:00 What a COO Role Really Looks Like in Biotech20:30 Building Teams in Small Biotech23:00 Leadership Style and Creating Trust26:00 Adapting Across Cultures and Environments29:00 Women in Leadership and Career Progression32:00 Being the Only One at the Table35:00 Self-Doubt, Growth, and Resilience37:30 What’s Next for ONL and Connie#SheLeadsBiotech #BiotechLeadership #WomenInBiotech #LifeSciences #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch

Leading Women’s Health Innovation: From Clinical Practice to CEO with Mandy PulliamIn this episode of She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Samantha (Mandy) Pulliam, CEO and Chief Medical Officer at Axena Health, for a conversation that highlights what it really takes to lead in women’s health.Mandy’s journey is a unique one. She started her career as a practicing physician before stepping into the biotech and medtech space, bringing with her a deep understanding of patient care that continues to shape how she leads today.What stood out to me in this conversation is how intentional she has been about bridging clinical insight with innovation. At Axena Health, she’s focused on addressing conditions that have historically been under-discussed and underserved, particularly in pelvic health.We talk about the realities of building and leading in women’s health, where the need is significant, but awareness, funding, and attention have often lagged behind.Mandy shares how she approaches leadership as both a clinician and a CEO, how she thinks about patient impact alongside commercial success, and why creating solutions in this space requires both persistence and a willingness to challenge long-standing assumptions.This is a conversation about leadership, purpose, and the responsibility that comes with developing products that directly impact patients’ quality of life.And a reminder that innovation in healthcare isn’t just about new technology, it’s about truly understanding the people you’re trying to help.📌 Chapters00:00 Introduction01:48 Mandy’s journey from physician to CEO03:52 Moving from clinical practice into industry05:41 Why women’s health remains underserved07:32 The mission behind Axena Health09:18 Addressing pelvic health challenges11:05 Bridging patient care and innovation13:12 Leadership as both a clinician and executive15:20 Navigating funding and awareness gaps17:08 Building solutions that truly serve patients19:06 Commercial strategy in women’s health21:14 Lessons learned stepping into the CEO role23:02 Advice for women entering biotech leadership24:40 Balancing purpose with business outcomes26:18 The future of women’s health innovation🎙️ She Leads Biotech celebrates the journeys of women shaping the future of life sciences.Subscribe for more conversations with biotech leaders, founders, and innovators.#SheLeadsBiotech #WomensHealth #BiotechLeadership #LifeSciences #MedTech #WomenInBiotech #HealthcareInnovation #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch

Rethinking Rare Disease: A New Model for Ultra-Rare Therapies with Beth WhiteIn this episode of She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Elizabeth (Beth) White, COO and Co-Founder of Orphan Therapeutics Accelerator, for a conversation that really stayed with me.Beth has spent her career at the intersection of science, strategy, and commercialization, and today she’s focused on one of the biggest challenges in our industry: how do we bring therapies to patients with ultra-rare diseases when the traditional biotech model simply doesn’t support them?As Beth explains, the science has moved forward, especially in gene and cell therapies, but the business model hasn’t kept up. And that’s leaving too many promising therapies sitting on the shelf, never reaching the patients who need them.What she and her team are building with the Orphan Therapeutics Accelerator is a completely different approach. A nonprofit biotech model designed to rethink how therapies are funded, developed, and ultimately delivered to patients.We talk about what that actually looks like in practice, from new ways of funding and partnering, to the creation of the CGT Exchange, a marketplace designed to unlock shelved assets and give them a path forward.This is one of those conversations that really challenges how you think about drug development, investment, and impact.And a reminder that behind every “ultra-rare” disease are real patients, real families, and a very real urgency to find solutions.📌 Chapters00:00 Introduction01:52 Why ultra-rare diseases remain underserved03:44 What the Orphan Therapeutics Accelerator is05:00 Building a completely new development model06:32 How the nonprofit structure works in practice08:39 Creating awareness and industry engagement10:34 Major partnerships and recent momentum11:39 What the CGT Exchange is and why it matters13:26 Can this model work at scale?15:08 Beth’s journey into rare disease and gene therapy17:01 Bridging science and business19:18 Leadership across pharma, biotech, and nonprofit21:19 Big pharma vs biotech mindset23:09 Leading with limited resources24:21 Advice for women in biotech25:37 Risk-taking and career decisions26:17 The future of rare disease development28:40 The role of AI in accelerating progress🎙️ She Leads Biotech celebrates the journeys of women shaping the future of life sciences.Subscribe for more conversations with biotech leaders, founders, and innovators.#SheLeadsBiotech #BethWhite #RareDisease #GeneTherapy #BiotechInnovation #WomenInBiotech #LifeSciences #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch

From Data to Discovery: Accelerating Drug Development with Samantha Dale StrasserIn this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Samantha Dale Strasser, VP of Strategy at Cellular Intelligence, for a fascinating conversation at the intersection of biology, computation, and patient impact.Samantha’s journey spans biomedical engineering, applied mathematics, physics, and a PhD at MIT, but what truly shaped her path was something deeply personal. Her father’s diagnosis with frontotemporal dementia brought into sharp focus just how far we still have to go in treating complex diseases, and sparked a determination to accelerate how we move new technologies from the lab into the hands of patients. We talk about her transition from academia into entrepreneurship, co-founding PepperBio, and now her work at Cellular Intelligence, where she is helping to build a platform that is fundamentally changing how we ask and answer biological questions.What stood out to me in this conversation is just how much the pace of science is shifting. Questions that once took years to answer can now be explored in months, opening up entirely new possibilities for drug discovery and treatment.We also dive into leadership, resilience, and what it really takes to build something from scratch in uncertain times.📌 Chapters00:00 Introduction00:10 Samantha’s background and academic journey02:10 Early interest in biology and computation04:15 A personal turning point: her father’s diagnosis05:32 Founding PepperBio and early entrepreneurship06:35 What Cellular Intelligence is building09:39 The role of AI and large-scale data in biology10:43 How speed is transforming research timelines11:41 Building a tech bio company13:26 Leadership across different stages of her career15:21 Motivating and growing scientific teams16:44 Transitioning from operator to leader18:29 The leadership training gap in life sciences20:34 Resilience and building a company during COVID23:44 Advice for scientists interested in entrepreneurship26:19 What the future holds for Samantha and the field28:00 A personal mission and long-term vision🎙️ She Leads Biotech celebrates the journeys of women shaping the future of life sciences.Subscribe for more conversations with biotech leaders, founders, and innovators.#SheLeadsBiotech #SamanthaDaleStrasser #CellularIntelligence #BiotechInnovation #DrugDiscovery #WomenInBiotech #LifeSciences #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox speaks with Joanna Ghayad, Founder & CEO of Joanna Ghayad Coaching, about leadership, influence, and the transition many scientists struggle to make as their careers grow.Joanna’s career has taken her from working as an oncology pharmacist supporting cancer patients at the bedside, to roles in biotech and big pharma, and ultimately to launching her own leadership coaching practice focused on developing the next generation of leaders in life sciences. After more than 15 years working across healthcare, biotech, and large pharmaceutical organizations, Joanna began to notice a consistent gap. Scientists are trained extensively in technical expertise, but very rarely taught how to lead teams, influence decisions, and communicate science in a way that drives business and patient impact.In this conversation we explore the shift from technical expert to strategic leader, why scientists often get “boxed in,” and how professionals in life sciences can take ownership of their careers rather than waiting for someone else to define the next step.Joanna also shares practical advice for scientists who want to grow their influence, build visibility within their organizations, and develop the leadership skills needed to move into executive roles.If you're working in biotech, pharma, or the broader life sciences ecosystem and thinking about your next step, this is a conversation worth listening to.Connect with Joanna GhayadLinkedIn: Joanna GhayadYouTube: The Revolutionary StemmistJoanna has also generously offered listeners a complimentary 20-minute coaching session, available through the link below: https://joannaghayadcoaching.com/conference/formChapters00:00 Introduction01:34 Joanna’s journey into pharmacy and oncology03:33 Exploring career paths during pharmacy school05:08 Transitioning from healthcare into biotech and pharma09:08 Discovering the leadership gap in life sciences10:30 Creating leadership training inside big pharma13:38 Why scientists struggle with leadership and influence16:08 The myth that scientists aren’t creative20:40 Launching Joanna Ghayad Coaching23:35 Moving from operator to leader26:13 How coaching helps scientists advance their careers28:20 Advice for scientists who want to grow into leadership32:03 Navigating power dynamics in organizations35:11 Authentic leadership and building respect37:46 How to connect with Joanna

Megan McGill | Leadership, Credibility & Persistence in BiotechCEO, Brenig TherapeuticsWhat does it really take to build credibility as a leader in biotech?In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Megan McGill, CEO of Brenig Therapeutics, to talk about leadership, persistence, and the realities women still face when building careers in the life sciences industry.Megan shares her journey into biotech leadership and what it takes to step into the CEO role in a competitive and evolving sector.One part of our conversation that really stood out was Megan’s honesty about something many women quietly experience: sometimes you have to outperform everyone else just to be taken seriously.We talk about the importance of credentials, preparation, and resilience, and why continuing to push forward matters, even when the room isn’t designed with you in mind.This conversation is an honest look at leadership, credibility, and the persistence required to succeed in biotech.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:45 Megan’s career journey into biotech07:30 Moving into leadership roles13:10 The reality of credibility and gender bias18:20 Why credentials matter in leadership24:15 Advice for women building careers in biotech29:40 Leadership lessons as CEO of Brenig Therapeutics34:30 Final advice for the next generation🎙️ She Leads Biotech celebrates the journeys of women shaping the future of life sciences.Subscribe for more conversations with biotech leaders, founders, and innovators.#SheLeadsBiotech #MeganMcGill #BrenigTherapeutics #BiotechLeadership #WomenInBiotech #WomenInScience #LifeSciences

What does it really take to move from academia to industry… and then into the C-suite?In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Sailaja Battula, Chief Scientific Officer at Ankyra Therapeutics, whose journey is anything but conventional.Born and raised on a farm in South India, Sailaja became the first in her family to attend college. She completed her PhD while raising two young children, applied for over 200 industry roles to make her transition, built immunology teams from scratch, and ultimately stepped into the CSO role at a pivotal moment for her company.This is a conversation about intention, discipline, leadership growth, and knowing when you are ready, even before you fully believe it yourself.We cover:• Transitioning from academia to industry• What hiring managers really look for• Building and leading discovery teams• Moving from VP to CSO• Leadership vs management in scientific roles• Raising a family while building a biotech careerIf you are thinking about your next move, especially into leadership, this episode is packed with clarity and practical insight.Chapters: 00:00 Introduction01:40 Growing up on a farm in South India07:01 Education, marriage, and moving to the US08:48 Breaking into biotech with a newborn11:19 PhD, postdoc, and moving into immuno-oncology14:37 Why transitioning from academia to industry is hard19:21 The three questions to ask before applying for a role22:46 Career progression from scientist to VP30:12 Stepping into the CSO role at Ankyra36:16 What changes when you join the C-suite38:10 Leadership vs management in science40:38 Advice to her younger self42:03 Using LinkedIn strategically for career growth43:42 What’s next as CSO🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations with women shaping the future of biotech.#SheLeadsBiotech #SailajaBattula #AnkyraTherapeutics #ChiefScientificOfficer #BiotechLeadership #WomenInScience #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Mori Mohseni, Head of Biology at VidaVinci, for a powerful conversation about persistence, purpose, and what it really takes to lead in drug discovery.From her early fascination with biology to pivotal roles at AstraZeneca, Novartis, BMS, and now startup biotech, Mori’s career has been defined by one recurring theme: give her the hard problem.We talk about what it means to search for truth in science, even when the answer isn’t what you hoped for. We explore the transition from big pharma to biotech to startup life, and why those moves were intentional. And we dive into leadership, team building, and the obsession required to move breakthrough science forward.This is a conversation about loving the work enough to stay with it when it’s difficult, and inspiring others to do the same.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Introduction and Mori’s early path into science03:40 – Falling in love with biology and choosing research over medicine08:10 – The leap from academia into industry12:00 – A pivotal lesson: “Look for the truth” in drug discovery15:20 – Seeing a drug go from bench to patient18:45 – Big pharma vs biotech vs startup: what really changes23:15 – Building infrastructure from scratch in smaller companies27:30 – Leading as a servant leader and building strong teams31:40 – Advice for young scientists navigating today’s market35:50 – The future of biotech and the need for early innovation funding40:10 – Leadership in biotech means loving what you do

Closing the Diagnostic Gap: Leadership, Equity, and Global Health with Devasena GnanashanmugamIn this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Devasena Gnanashanmugam, VP of Medical Affairs at Cepheid, for a deeply thoughtful conversation about diagnostics, equity, and what it really means to lead in global healthcare.Devasena’s journey spans medical training in India, pediatric infectious disease at Stanford, work at the NIH, and now industry leadership in molecular diagnostics. But at the center of it all is one consistent mission: improving access to timely, accurate diagnosis for the patients who need it most.We talk about tuberculosis, HIV, COVID, and the persistent global diagnostic gap — and why identifying the problem correctly is often the most powerful intervention of all.This episode is about science, yes. But it is also about humility, collaboration, and the responsibility that comes with leadership.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Devasena Gnanashanmugam03:10 – From India to Stanford: early influences and medical training07:45 – Why infectious disease and global health became her focus11:20 – Tuberculosis as a medical and social justice issue15:05 – “Find the bug so you can get the drug” – the power of diagnostics18:40 – The global diagnostic gap and access challenges22:15 – Lessons from COVID and what changed in molecular testing26:30 – Transitioning from academia and NIH to industry30:05 – The evolving role of physicians in biotech and diagnostics33:50 – Leading from the front and from behind37:10 – Collaboration, resilience, and staying grounded in purpose🎙 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.#SheLeadsBiotech #DevasenaGnanashanmugam #Cepheid #GlobalHealth #Diagnostics #MedicalAffairs #WomenInSTEM #LifeSciencesLeadership #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch #SharronCoxStudio

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, host Sharron Cox speaks with Megan Forrest, Chief Operating Officer at Caring Cross, about a purpose-driven career shaped by science, family, and impact.Megan shares how she navigated:Becoming a mother while completing her degreesCareer shifts between biotech and nonprofitLeading a viral vector program through BLA approvalTaking a full year off — and choosing to come backWhy the mission of Caring Cross was the “perfect storm” opportunityThis is a compelling story of resilience, reinvention, and how the right role can align everything you've worked for.🔗 Learn more about Caring Cross: https://caringcross.org📌 Chapters:00:00 – Meet Megan Forrest02:15 – From science to motherhood: balancing ambition early06:30 – Her early biotech roles and learning fast09:45 – The leap into nonprofit and what it taught her14:00 – Running a GMP viral vector program to BLA17:25 – Walking away (and why)21:10 – What drew her back to biotech24:00 – How Caring Cross found her at the perfect time27:30 – The COO role: building from experience30:50 – Advice to women making unconventional career moves33:45 – Rapid fire: role models, reading, and what’s next🎙️ Listen now and hear how a life built on passion and adaptability led to a role with real global impact.#SheLeadsBiotech #CaringCross #MeganForrest #BiotechLeadership #COO #CellTherapy #NonprofitBiotech #CareerComeback #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch #LifeSciencesLeadership

Kate Skrable didn’t plan on a career in biotech. But when med school doors didn’t open, she built a different path — one that’s led her to Pfizer, where she now serves as VP of Strategic Partnerships, leading global deals across multiple therapeutic areas.In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Kate joins Sharron for a candid, funny, and deeply insightful conversation about owning your story, leading with purpose, and preparing for board service.They talk about:What “fail forward” really meansGrowing up with grit and staying grounded in purposeServant leadership and hiring A-playersThe power of Women in Bio’s Boardroom Ready programWhat smaller companies really need from a commercial advisor🎙 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Kate Skrable03:00 – Med school rejections and a new path into biotech06:30 – Building resilience and finding purpose through pivots10:45 – Why scarcity shaped her approach to leadership14:20 – The power of servant leadership and hiring strong teams17:35 – Making the leap into strategic partnerships at Pfizer22:15 – Joining Women in Bio’s Boardroom Ready program26:00 – What early-stage boards really need from commercial voices30:00 – Advice to women: Don’t play small — say yes and figure it out later33:10 – What’s next for Kate SkrableWhether you’re navigating your own career pivot or building your board CV, this episode will leave you energized and empowered.🎁 Follow for more episodes celebrating women in science, strategy, and leadership.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube.#SheLeadsBiotech | Hosted by Sharron Cox | CNA USA Executive Search

What happens when a heart surgeon gets fed up with “good enough”?In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Dr. Meghana Helder-Surgeon, practicing cardiac surgeon and Founder & CEO of Octin Health. She shares how one sleepless night in the OR — and one patient outcome she couldn’t let go of — led her to build a medtech company from her basement, starting with a garden hose, a drill, and a whole lot of determination.We talk about:Being a woman in one of the most male-dominated specialties in medicineWhat it takes to spot a gap in care — and do something about itWhy she didn’t wait for permission, funding, or perfect conditions to startHow she balances leadership, clinical practice, motherhood, and missionWhat she wants every young woman in STEM to hear💬 “You don’t have to change who you are to lead. You just have to stop apologizing for it.”📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Meghana Helder and the origins of Octin Health03:20 – What it’s like to be a woman in cardiac surgery (3% club)06:45 – The patient case that changed everything10:00 – Building her first prototype with a garden hose and grit14:15 – Partnering with her husband and navigating startup life17:30 – What she’s learned about leadership along the way21:00 – Balancing motherhood, medicine, and entrepreneurship25:00 – Advice for women who feel like they don’t “fit the mold”28:00 – What’s next for Octin Health🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more#SheLeadsBiotech #MeghanaHelder #OctinHealth #WomenInSTEM #MedTechFounders #CardiacSurgery #LifeSciencesLeadership #StartupJourney #AuthenticLeadership #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch #SharronCoxStudio

This week on She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Stacy Lindborg, CEO and Board Director at IMUNON, whose career journey, from stats and data to the biotech C-suite, is a powerful example of purpose-driven leadership.In this episode, Stacy shares how her training in statistics shaped her approach to decision-making, the personal values that guided her transition to CEO, and how IMUNON is advancing new therapies in ovarian cancer that could shift the standard of care.She brings a rare blend of rigor, humility, and heart to the conversation and reminds us that leadership isn’t about ego. It’s about evidence, conviction, and the courage to follow both.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Stacy Lindborg and her journey from statistics to biotech03:45 – Early career lessons and the power of evidence-based decision-making07:30 – Leading with curiosity, not ego10:15 – Becoming CEO at IMUNON and what surprised her most14:00 – IMUNON’s work in ovarian cancer and immune-gene therapy17:20 – How personal loss and patient focus guide her leadership21:40 – Mentorship, gender dynamics, and modeling what’s possible26:00 – Why biotech needs both scientific clarity and emotional connection30:30 – Final thoughts on staying grounded and building a legacy🎙️ This episode is proudly presented by CNA USA Executive Search.Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your favorite episodes.#SheLeadsBiotech #StacyLindborg #IMUNON #WomenInSTEM #BiotechLeadership #OvarianCancer #LifeSciencesInnovation #AuthenticLeadership #SharronCox #CNAUSAExecutiveSearch #ExecutiveLeadership #PurposeDrivenCareers

Mentorship, Mid-Career Pivots & Women in STEM — with Brittany J. BellDescription:When Brittany J. Bell realized med school wasn’t her path, she didn’t give up on science—she found a new one.In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Brittany joins host Sharron Cox to share how she turned her love of laboratory science into a purpose-driven career in commercial pharma. From lab bench to boardrooms, Brittany’s story is filled with pivots, mentorship, and a passion for supporting the next generation of women in STEM.🎙️ We cover:What medical laboratory science actually is—and why it’s so vitalCareer pathways beyond the lab that most people don’t know aboutHow two mentors gave Brittany the confidence to leap into industryWhy young women need space to grow, not just directionsThe role of Women in Bio and how to get involvedResumes, AI, and what hiring managers should really be looking for💡 Plus: Brittany’s take on leadership, mentorship, and the underrated power of following your gut.A thoughtful, inspiring conversation for anyone navigating career uncertainty, mentoring others, or just trying to find their place in the ever-evolving world of life sciences.

Welcome to Season 4 of She Leads Biotech and we’re starting strong.This week, host Sharron Cox is joined by Melissa and Amy Arthur, sisters and co-founders of the Arthur Leadership Group, who bring decades of experience coaching women in biotech, medtech, diagnostics, and STEM.Their work focuses on helping women navigate burnout, build resilience, and lead with authenticity — not exhaustion.In this episode:The Career Catalyst framework for creating clarity, confidence, and momentumPower partnerships: what they are, and how to build themWhy women in STEM still struggle with overwork, perfectionism, and self-doubtThe link between identity and leadershipTools for building a values-aligned career in 2026🎁 Special Gifts for She Leads Biotech ListenersFrom the Arthur Leadership Group:✅ A downloadable Power Partnerships Activation Guide — a framework for sourcing the support you need to thrive in 2026✅ A complimentary, confidential Career Catalyst Coaching Session — a private 1:1 session to gain clarity on your vision, activate practical steps, and tap into mindsets and networks that fuel momentum.👉 Click here to claim your giftsLearn more about Amy & Melissa’s work at: www.arthurleadershipgroup.com#SheLeadsBiotech #ArthurLeadershipGroup #WomenInSTEM #CareerCatalyst #LeadershipCoaching #AuthenticLeadership #PowerPartnerships #CNAUSA #SharronCox

Terri Gaskell | CTO, Rinri TherapeuticsRestoring Hearing. Redefining Possibility.In this episode, I speak with Terri Gaskell, Chief Technology Officer at Rinri Therapeutics, about the revolutionary work her team is doing to treat sensorineural hearing loss through stem cell therapy.Terri shares her remarkable journey from academia to biotech, the real-world hurdles of early-stage leadership, and the power of staying grounded (even when things get weird, wild, or wonderfully promising).We talk science, strategy, identity, and authenticity — all wrapped up in a clinical trial story that just might restore hearing for those who’ve lost it.🎙️ This episode of She Leads Biotech is proudly sponsored by Phacilitate & Women in Advanced Therapies (WIAT).📌 Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 – Meet Terri Gaskell & the Rinri mission03:05 – The science behind restoring hearing via stem cells07:20 – From university spinout to clinical trials: how it all began11:40 – Navigating burnout & building balanced leadership14:30 – Why authenticity matters more than ever in biotech17:25 – Terri’s Women in Advanced Therapies experience19:40 – The highs, lows, and marigolds of team management22:55 – How academia prepared (and didn’t prepare) her for biotech26:15 – Advice for new biotech leaders: confidence vs competence29:30 – Rinri’s clinical pipeline and what’s next33:00 – Final reflections on purpose, progress, and patient impact#SheLeadsBiotech #TerriGaskell #RinriTherapeutics #HearingLoss #CellTherapy #BiotechLeadership #WomenInSTEM #RegenerativeMedicine #CNAInternationalUSA #SharronCoxStudio #WIAT #Phacilitate #LifeSciences

Showing Up Fully: Katrina Rice on Leadership, Identity & Inclusive TrialsThis week, I sit down with Katrina Rice, Chief Delivery Officer of Biometrics Services at eClinical Solutions, for a raw and empowering conversation about identity, leadership, and impact.Katrina shares her journey from a first-gen college student in Alabama to a self-made C-level executive — and the courage it took to create the job she wanted when no one else offered it. We talk about the power of showing up as your full self, the ongoing challenges facing women of color in biosciences, and why diversity in clinical trials isn’t optional — it’s life-saving.🎙️ Sponsored by Phacilitate & Women in Advanced Therapies (WIAT)Whether you're mentoring others, navigating your own path, or working to make your workplace more inclusive, Katrina’s story is a masterclass in resilience and authenticity.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Intro02:15 – Growing up in Alabama and finding a path into science05:45 – What it felt like to be the only Black woman in the room08:30 – Transitioning from IT and government work to clinical research11:10 – Creating her own role at eClinical Solutions15:45 – What it means to lead with purpose, not just title20:00 – Diversity in clinical trials: why it matters and where we’re falling short25:30 – Representing communities of color in data and design29:45 – Advice for young professionals entering the life sciences34:00 – The power of authenticity and finding your own leadership style37:10 – Closing thoughts: identity, impact, and legacyFull episode now live on Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts.#SheLeadsBiotech #Phacilitate #WIAT #KatrinaRice #eClinicalSolutions #DiversityInClinicalTrials #BiotechLeadership #WomenInSTEM #AuthenticLeadership #LifeSciences #SharronCoxStudio #CNAInternationalUSA

From Molecules to Machine Learning: CTO Chaemin Lim on Drug Design & Leadership.What does drug discovery look like in the age of AI?In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Chaemin Lim, Chief Technology Officer of Coiled Therapeutics, for a wide-ranging discussion that spans synthetic chemistry, startup life, and the future of AI in oncology.With over 15 years in drug development, Chaemin shares how her love of chemistry began in her father’s lab in Korea and evolved into a career at the intersection of data, design, and deep science. From building AI tools for medicinal chemists to learning how to translate science for investors, her journey is anything but linear and all the more inspiring for it.In this episode:00:00 Intro02:30 Growing up in science (and her dad’s chemistry lab)05:45 Pharmacy school and falling in love with drug development10:40 Building her own computational chemistry lab in grad school17:30 From postdoc to industry: how AI came into play21:00 What AI can and can’t do in drug discovery26:30 Startup life and translating science to strategy29:00 Advice for women in biotech and defining yourself as a “designer”33:00 What’s next for Coiled TherapeuticsTune in for a thoughtful, practical, and occasionally hilarious conversation that proves science and leadership are anything but boring.#SheLeadsBiotech #ChaeminLim #CoiledTherapeutics #DrugDesign #AIInBiotech #WomenInSTEM #AuthenticLeadership #LifeSciences #BiotechLeadership #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Carolyn Yeago, Director of the MS in Biomedical Innovation & Development – Advanced Therapeutics at Emory University.Carolyn’s career has taken her from being the first female co-op engineer at a med-tech company to shaping how the next generation of biotech leaders are trained — with a strong foundation in clinical, regulatory, and commercial strategy.We talk about:Why early-stage biotech companies often skip critical operational knowledgeHow academia and industry can work together more effectivelyThe importance of building teams who understand the why, not just the howWhat’s happening in Atlanta’s growing biotech ecosystemAnd how this new master’s program is filling the gaps most startups don’t even know they haveIf you’re hiring early-career talent or thinking about where your next pipeline of leadership will come from — this episode is for you.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Carolyn Yeago03:00 – From co-op engineer to biotech educator06:30 – The gaps she saw in early-stage teams09:30 – Building a program around the full product lifecycle13:30 – Regulatory awareness in the classroom17:00 – Collaborating with industry, founders, and faculty21:00 – What makes a student stand out in biotech24:00 – The rise of biotech in Atlanta27:00 – Final advice for future leaders🎓 Applications for the 2026 cohort are now open. 🟣 This episode is sponsored by Phacilitate and Women in Advanced Therapies (WIAT).#SheLeadsBiotech #CarolynYeago #EmoryUniversity #AdvancedTherapeutics #BiotechEducation #WomenInSTEM #WorkforceDevelopment #AcademicInnovation #LifeSciences #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Deanna Angello, a seasoned commercial leader whose career spans some of the biggest names in healthcare: Pfizer, Kite Pharma, J&J, and Genentech.But this isn’t just a highlight reel of commercial success. It’s a conversation about what happens when life interrupts the script — and how that moment can bring clarity, courage, and an entirely new sense of purpose.We talk about:Navigating career grief after personal lossHow Genentech prepared her for some of the most high-stakes commercial threats in biotechWhy FDA approval is only the beginning — not the end — of accessBuilding scalable systems that serve both patients and teamsWhat she's looking for in her next chapter as a Chief Commercial OfficerIf you're building something big — and looking for someone who’s done it all but still thinks like a builder — you’ll want to hear this one.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Deanna Angello02:00 – From Pfizer to Genentech: early lessons and leadership06:00 – Grief, clarity, and stepping off the treadmill10:00 – Building commercial systems that last14:00 – Patient access and the real work after FDA approval18:30 – What she’s looking for in her next CCO role23:00 – Advice for leaders ready to rethink their own path#SheLeadsBiotech #DeannaAngello #BiotechLeadership #WomenInSTEM #ChiefCommercialOfficer #LifeSciences #PatientAccess #AuthenticLeadership #CareerPivot #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Theresa Tribble, a dynamic entrepreneur and life sciences leader whose career has taken her from health policy and MBA halls to some of the most innovative companies in biotech.Theresa has led strategy and growth at Everlywell, BigHat Biosciences, and Droplet Biosciences, and now she’s preparing to summit Mount Kilimanjaro as part of the 2026 Timmerman Traverse — raising $1M+ for early-career cancer researchers.This conversation is honest, bold, and full of insight for anyone navigating their own career pivots or seeking purpose in the path less traveled.We talk about:Why she’s drawn to companies that “should already exist”The difference between mentors and sponsors (and how to find both)What made Everlywell the riskiest — and most rewarding — moveLeadership without a science background (and why it works)The climb of a lifetime for cancer researchHer personal checklist for knowing when to say “yes” to an idea📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Theresa Tribble02:00 – Her unexpected path into life sciences05:00 – Working at Everlywell: a bold career leap08:30 – Finding purpose in patient proximity11:00 – How she evaluates new ideas and career moves14:30 – Mentorship vs sponsorship18:00 – BigHat Biosciences and Droplet: different models, shared mission22:00 – Career pivot tips for people outside the lab25:00 – Timmerman Traverse: climbing Kilimanjaro for cancer research30:00 – Advice for building a career with meaning🎧 Tune in for a conversation that blends strategy, mission, and a whole lot of heart.

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Katja Betts, CEO of PROGEN, one of Germany’s first biotech companies — now 40 years strong and still evolving.Katja’s leadership journey is anything but typical. From marketing to the boardroom, she now leads a 45-person team that partners globally with biotech giants like Thermo Fisher and Bio-Techne. But at the heart of it all? A deep commitment to precision, collaboration, and progress that lasts.They talk about:PROGEN’s mission to make gene therapy tools more accessible and scalableThe leadership mindset Katja brought from brand strategy to biotechWhy innovation doesn’t have to be loud to be boldGender and generational bias in biotech leadershipHow PROGEN is supporting clients around the world — without losing focusWhether you’re scaling a biotech company or building a career in life sciences, this episode offers a thoughtful, grounded take on leadership, growth, and impact.📌 Timestamps / Chapters00:00 – Meet Katja Betts & PROGEN’s history03:30 – From branding to biotech: Katja’s unconventional career path06:00 – What makes PROGEN different (and why clients stay 20+ years)09:00 – The mission: Making gene therapy better, together12:30 – Building tools that work without specialist equipment15:00 – Collaborating with Thermo Fisher, Bio-Techne, and more18:00 – Leadership in Germany: differences, networks, and gender dynamics22:00 – The weight of legacy and the power of steady progress25:00 – Advice for new leaders in biotech🎧 Listen now and share with someone building something with meaning.

Jennifer Chain | The Leukopak Lady – Why Starting Materials Matter More Than You ThinkIn this episode of She Leads Biotech, host Sharron Cox sits down with Jennifer Chain, immunologist, consultant, and founder of CSM Consulting, to explore a topic most people in biotech overlook, the strategic importance of starting materials in cell and gene therapy.Known on LinkedIn as The Leukopak Lady, Jennifer shares her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, her deep expertise in donor qualification, and why collection centers and therapy developers need to start thinking upstream if they want downstream success.Chapters:00:00 – Meet Jennifer Chain: From West Texas to starting materials expert03:00 – Why she chose gamma delta T cells over cancer research06:30 – Why donor selection is critical to manufacturing and clinical outcomes10:30 – What most execs misunderstand about leukopaks13:00 – How she built a consulting business (and the startup that didn’t work out)17:00 – The viral video series: “The Leukopak Lady” on LinkedIn & YouTube20:00 – The regulatory grey zones no one is talking about23:00 – Centralized vs decentralized manufacturing: hidden bottlenecks27:00 – Why donor stewardship is the new frontier in cell therapy30:00 – Her advice for early-career scientists breaking into the spaceWhether you're in CMC, clinical, regulatory, or BD — this episode will shift how you think about supply chains, success rates, and what it really means to build therapies that work.Listen now and follow Jennifer at #LeukopakLady for more insight.

Susan Nichols has spent her career bridging the gap between innovation and impact. Now, as CEO of Propel Biosciences, she’s helping startups in the cell and gene therapy space build commercial strategies that work, for patients, investors, and everyone in between.In this episode of #SheLeadsBiotech, Susan shares how her personal connection to rare disease shaped her path, what she learned transitioning from Big Pharma to biotech, and why commercialization isn’t just about revenue, it’s about responsibility.Chapters: 00:00 – Meet Susan Nichols and her personal connection to rare disease03:00 – Why cell and gene therapy felt like “sci-fi” — and what made her believe06:30 – From Big Pharma to startup life: learning to lead without the handbook10:00 – The patient as north star: what keeps her going12:00 – Leadership vs. management: how her style evolved17:00 – Managing individuals, not job titles20:00 – Why mentoring isn’t about advice — it’s about curiosity22:30 – What Propel Biosciences does, and how she helps companies get market-ready26:00 – Why good science isn’t enough without a clear commercial pathway30:00 – Breaking through the noise: messaging, clarity, and value33:00 – Advice for those entering CGT (and what not to do)🎧 Tune in to hear from a powerhouse who’s seen every side of the industry — and is now paying it forward.

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Angela Vollstedt, Director of Global Cell & Gene Therapies Portfolio at Novartis, for a conversation that blends operational grit with visionary thinking.Angela’s career spans two decades in pharma — from legacy manufacturing to advanced therapies — and she’s now at the forefront of shaping how personalized medicine can become scalable, accessible, and sustainable.We talk about:Her unexpected start in a male-dominated manufacturing environmentThe creative shift from operations to product developmentRethinking biotech leadership in uncharted territoryThe “bus” model that could transform patient access in CGTThe mindset young biotech professionals need to succeed todayWhether you’re scaling a CGT company or just starting out in life sciences, Angela’s story offers grounded insights and bold ideas about what it means to lead at the edge of innovation. Listen now and share with a leader navigating the new frontier of biotech.📌 Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 – Meet Angela Vollstedt01:00 – Her entry into pharma & manufacturing05:00 – Being one of the only women in the room07:00 – Lessons that shaped her leadership style11:00 – Transitioning into product development14:00 – Entering advanced therapies16:00 – Balancing excellence with innovation18:00 – A "bus" that could change patient access23:00 – Why patient awareness matters26:00 – What keeps her passionate about the work28:00 – Advice for the next generation of biotech leaders

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Jeanne Hecht, CEO & Chairwoman of Lexitas Pharma Services, whose career spans global operations, clinical development, and private equity-backed growth — but whose leadership style is anything but cold and corporate.Jeanne gets real about the lessons she learned the hard way: the dangers of micromanagement, the beauty of asking for help, and why ego has no place in building something that lasts.We talk about:🔹 Her early career in clinical research and how she learned to “speak investor”🔹 Transitioning from doer to delegator — and how trust transformed her leadership🔹 The role of PE firms in shaping biotech strategy🔹 Her take on when founders should step back and bring in an operator🔹 What it means to lead with humility and consistency — especially as a woman in the C-suite💬 “A position of strength is when somebody understands they’re not in the right role — and they step aside so someone else can do it better.”📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Jeanne Hecht02:30 – From clinical trials to the business side of biotech05:30 – The evolution of her leadership style: from micromanagement to mentorship08:45 – How her team helps her lead better11:00 – Building Lexitas with a people-first culture14:00 – What investors are really looking for in leadership17:00 – Advice for scientist-founders: when to step aside20:00 – Gender, confidence, and owning the room23:30 – Winning “CEO of the Year” on a chaotic morning27:00 – The biggest lesson she’s still learning30:00 – Her advice to women moving into executive roles🎧 A must-listen for biotech leaders at every stage — grounded, generous, and refreshingly real.#SheLeadsBiotech #JeanneHecht #LexitasPharma #WomenInLeadership #ClinicalDevelopment #PrivateEquity #BiotechLeadership #LifeSciences #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Mini Manchanda, Senior Director of Precision Medicine at Kura Oncology, to explore a career built on curiosity, compassion, and bold pivots.From her early research days in India to global biotech roles at Thermo Fisher, AstraZeneca, and now Kura, Mini shares how she’s helped shape the future of healthcare — one personalized solution at a time.We talk about:🔹 Redefining success after an early “failure”🔹 Working across diagnostics, drug development, and precision medicine🔹 Leading with intention in a high-growth biotech🔹 The difference between precision medicine and precision health🔹 Holistic care, Eastern medicine, and integrating new paradigms🔹 Mentorship, identity, and finding meaning beyond your job title “You don’t need to be hard to lead. You can lead with softness.”An honest and uplifting conversation with a scientist, strategist, and leader who’s building better systems — and lifting others as she rises.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Mini Manchanda02:00 – Childhood curiosity and falling in love with biology06:00 – When medical school didn’t work out — and why that was okay08:00 – The impact of constant relocation on resilience and adaptability10:00 – Getting into research and moving abroad for grad school12:00 – Transitioning from academia to industry14:00 – Thermo Fisher, Saudi genome projects, and diagnostics development16:00 – AstraZeneca and the global evolution of precision medicine19:00 – The power of purpose-driven leadership22:00 – What is precision medicine — and how is it evolving?24:00 – The future of precision health and data-informed wellness27:00 – Eastern vs. Western medicine: challenges and opportunities32:00 – Identity, purpose, and career ambitions34:00 – Advice for young women in science36:00 – Mentorship and paying it forward🎧 Listen now — and get inspired by a leader redefining what it means to do meaningful work in science and health.#SheLeadsBiotech #MiniManchanda #KuraOncology #PrecisionMedicine #WomenInSTEM #AuthenticLeadership #LifeSciences #BiotechInnovation #CareerGrowth #HolisticHealthcare

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Rhonda Wallen, Founder & CEO of IleraBio, and a biotech leader whose career spans science, venture capital, entrepreneurship, and health equity.Rhonda has built and advised companies from every angle, lab bench, boardroom, and investor pitch, and now she’s applying that experience to transform how we treat serious diseases through drug repurposing.We talk about:🔹 Her path from science to finance to founding🔹 What it was like launching her first startup during the 2008 downturn🔹 Lessons learned from rejection, reinvention, and raising capital🔹 The mission behind IleraBio: affordable, repurposed therapies for underserved diseases🔹 Her perspective on leadership, equity, and building with integrity“There’s more than one way to build a successful biotech company. We just need investors who are willing to see it.”📌 Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 – Meet Rhonda Wallen and her journey into biotech03:00 – From the lab to Wall Street: navigating early career pivots06:30 – Founding her first company and learning the hard way10:00 – Resilience, rejection, and raising capital as a woman in biotech14:00 – The birth of IleraBio and why drug repurposing matters18:30 – Funding models, access, and system change22:00 – Boardrooms, balance, and redefining leadership26:00 – Advice to founders navigating uncertainty29:00 – What’s next for Rhonda and IleraBioThis episode is a masterclass in perseverance, perspective, and purpose, from a founder who’s seen biotech from every side and is reshaping it from within.#SheLeadsBiotech #RhondaWallen #IleraBio #BiotechLeadership #WomenInSTEM #HealthEquity #DrugRepurposing #StartupFounder #AuthenticLeadership #LifeSciences #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Kristen Mittal, Co-founder & CEO of Mittal Consulting, a firm that’s quietly become one of the go-to regulatory partners for early-stage medtech startups across the U.S.Kristen’s background as a biomedical engineer, combined with her deep understanding of regulatory and commercialization strategy, gives her a unique lens into what founders really need, especially in today’s tighter funding and approval climate.We talk about:🔹 How she built Mittal Consulting from a solo operation to a 20+ person team🔹 Why most founders overlook regulatory until it’s too late🔹 Her philosophy on aligning regulatory pathways with reimbursement strategy🔹 The surprising truth about working with your spouse — and how they grew the business together🔹 Her work with MedTech Women and why more women need to be in boardrooms “If your product is regulatory-ready but not commercially viable, that’s not a win. Founders need better guidance earlier.”📌 Chapters / Timestamps:00:00 – Meet Kristen and the origin of Mittal Consulting03:15 – The evolution from engineer to regulatory strategist06:30 – Common mistakes founders make in FDA planning10:00 – When to bring in regulatory expertise (spoiler: it’s early)13:30 – Building a company with your husband (and staying sane)16:00 – Hiring, culture, and growing during the pandemic20:00 – Why FDA approval isn’t the final hurdle — reimbursement is23:00 – MedTech Women, visibility, and equity in board leadership26:00 – Advice to early-stage founders and regulatory professionalsTune in to hear how Kristen is helping the next wave of medtech innovators build smart, from day one.#SheLeadsBiotech #KristenMittal #MittalConsulting #MedTech #RegulatoryStrategy #WomenInSTEM #BoardRepresentation #Startups #BiotechLeadership #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, CEO Sharron Cox speaks with Paula Soteropoulos, a biotech leader whose career spans Genzyme, Moderna, and founding and leading Akcea Therapeutics from inception to IPO.With deep experience in rare diseases, drug development, commercialization, and board leadership, Paula reflects on how she built a career defined by curiosity, impact, and authentic leadership, and why she's now focused on bringing forward more accessible therapies for patients globally.Topics include:🔹 Her early days designing bioreactors and joining Genzyme during its most mission-driven era🔹 Taking Akcea public and launching two rare disease drugs across multiple countries🔹 How she scaled leadership teams, mentored the next generation, and made room for others to succeed🔹 Why she’s now investing time and energy in women’s health and accessibility in gene therapy🔹 The power of mentorship, board roles, and leading with purpose — not just performance📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – From liberal arts to biotech: how Paula found the field02:00 – Joining Genzyme and discovering her leadership potential05:30 – Building Akcea: from spinout to IPO to drug launch08:30 – Fundraising and operational challenges in today’s market11:00 – Mentorship, sponsorship, and creating space for women14:00 – Serving on boards and the value of diverse leadership experiences18:00 – Building support systems and balancing family with career22:00 – Her current work with 5AM Ventures and Ensoma26:00 – Making gene therapy more accessible30:00 – On leadership, authenticity, and the importance of sharing your “why”This episode is packed with practical insights for biotech leaders at every stage, from first-time founders to seasoned executives navigating new chapters.#SheLeadsBiotech #CNAInternationalUSA #PaulaSoteropoulos #BiotechLeadership #RareDiseases #GeneTherapy #WomenInSTEM #MentorshipMatters #AuthenticLeadership #LifeSciences #DrugDevelopment #BoardLeadership #VenturePartners #Akcea #Ensoma

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, host Sharron Cox, CEO of CNA International USA, speaks with Barbara Commisso, Business Development Manager at Evidenze, about building a biotech career from the ground up and why non-linear paths often lead to the most rewarding roles.Barbara’s journey began with academic research in Germany and evolved through unexpected pivots, including a role as a study coordinator in a psychiatric unit in Italy, before she found her niche in clinical trials and business development. Today, she works remotely across global markets, helping to connect science, operations, and strategy in the evolving world of clinical research.Topics include:🔹 How she transitioned from academic neuroscience into clinical operations🔹 The role of courage, self-belief, and mentorship in early-career pivots🔹 Navigating remote work and the European biotech landscape🔹 The rise of AI in clinical trials and how it’s shaping future roles🔹 Why she now mentors PhDs and postdocs navigating the same uncertainty she once faced📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Barbara and her early research career in Germany03:00 – Returning to Italy and starting from scratch in clinical trials06:00 – Moving into business development and working remotely08:30 – Cultural contrasts in biotech across Europe11:00 – How AI is reshaping clinical operations and trial design14:00 – Funding, hiring, and market trends in life sciences17:30 – The importance of mentorship and sharing your journey20:00 – Advice to scientists looking to pivot into biotech22:00 – What’s next for Barbara and the future of clinical researchA relatable and honest conversation about starting over, staying curious, and finding your place in biotech, even when the path isn’t linear.#SheLeadsBiotech #CNAInternationalUSA #BarbaraCommisso #ClinicalResearch #CareerTransition #WomenInSTEM #LifeSciences #MentorshipMatters #BiotechLeadership #RemoteWork #AuthenticLeadership

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Ami Mehr, COO & Digital Health Leader, who brings decades of experience in biotech, clinical trials, and digital health , and one of the most powerful personal stories I’ve heard.Ami has led global teams, built startups, launched digital platforms, and advised major pharma, but she’s also a three-time cancer survivor. Her perspective on leadership is shaped not just by boardrooms and product launches, but by what it means to be on the other side of the healthcare system.We talk about:🔹 How to scale biotech operations and still stay human🔹 The reality of being a woman in leadership and still underrepresented at the board level🔹 Her advice for navigating career transitions, including when the path is unclear🔹 The importance of storytelling, branding, and mentorship for senior women🔹 And why being “comfortable with the uncomfortable” might be the most powerful career strategy of all📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Ami Mehr and her path from software to life sciences02:00 – Taking the leap into startups and regulatory leadership04:00 – Lessons from scaling teams and building infrastructure06:00 – The importance of mentorship (and being your own advocate)08:30 – Her cancer journey and how it changed her view of the industry12:00 – The gap between patient-centric messaging and real impact15:00 – Career transitions, reinvention, and being honest about burnout18:00 – Personal brand, storytelling, and visibility on LinkedIn22:00 – Why the next move doesn’t always have to be “up”25:00 – Final thoughts on leadership, courage, and purposeThis one’s a mix of strategy, reflection, and real talk, from a leader who’s seen the system from every angle and still shows up with clarity, heart, and conviction.#SheLeadsBiotech #AmiMehr #WomenInSTEM #BiotechLeadership #PatientAdvocacy #CareerGrowth #DigitalHealth #AuthenticLeadership #LifeSciences #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Kristien Van Vlasselaer, VP of Operations at Gordian Biotechnology, a neuroscientist turned biotech exec, and someone who brings heart, systems thinking, and radical honesty to the leadership table.Kristien shares how her journey through academia, consulting, and startups was shaped by personal challenges, neurodiversity, and a refusal to settle for environments that didn’t fit.We dive into:🔹 Making the leap from PhD to business roles🔹 Her experience with late-diagnosed ADHD and how it reshaped her view of success🔹 Why we need to stop calling them “soft skills”🔹 The challenges of leadership as a woman and a mother in biotech🔹 What it means to build healthy, human-centered teams in fast-paced environmentsThis is one of those conversations that stays with you, equal parts strategy, vulnerability, and real talk.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Kristien and her career path from neuroscience to biotech03:00 – Consulting at BCG and the reality of burnout06:45 – Getting diagnosed with ADHD and what changed10:30 – Navigating imposter syndrome and perfectionism13:00 – Leaving toxic environments and finding career clarity16:45 – Building better teams: why leadership starts with empathy19:30 – Why scientists need training beyond the technical22:00 – Breaking the myth of “soft” skills25:00 – Parenting, identity, and embracing non-linear careers28:30 – Advice to early-career scientists: say yes, then figure it out30:00 – What she’s building now at Gordian and why it matters🎧 Tune in for an honest and empowering conversation with someone who’s redefining leadership on her own terms.#SheLeadsBiotech #KristienVanVlasselaer #GordianBiotechnology #WomenInSTEM #ADHDLeadership #BiotechOperations #AuthenticLeadership #NeurodivergentVoices #LifeSciences #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Georgie Kovacs — founder of Fempower Health and a powerhouse in the women’s health space to talk about fertility, diagnostics, and why solving for passion isn’t enough.Georgie spent years in commercial leadership roles at top biopharma companies before launching a women’s health startup inspired by her own struggle with unexplained infertility. When the business model proved tough to sustain, she turned her research into one of the most respected podcasts in the field and now consults with startups, investors, and accelerators shaping the next era of women’s health innovation.We talk about:🔹 Her early career in sales and marketing at BMS🔹 The fertility journey that changed her path🔹 Why women's health startups need more than a good idea — they need business discipline🔹 What delays endometriosis diagnoses and how we fix it🔹 Building tools to help women navigate a fragmented healthcare system🔹 Why prevention is the future but it still needs funding🔹 Real innovations (like smarter bassinets and hormone-linked mental health tech) that give her hope📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Georgie and her pharma journey03:00 – From fertility struggles to founding a startup07:00 – Building vs. launching: the harsh reality of business models in women’s health10:00 – From idea to podcast: launching Fempower Health13:00 – Endometriosis, delayed diagnoses, and missing data16:00 – Coaching women through the healthcare maze18:00 – Why femtech needs to speak the language of investors21:00 – Examples of innovation in maternal health, sexual wellness, and hormone care25:00 – What Georgie’s learned advising startups and accelerators28:00 – Her advice for women entering the space: passion isn’t enough Tune in for an honest, strategic, and inspiring look at what it really takes to move women’s health forward.

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Denise Dajles, President & CEO at Cytrellis Biosystems, Inc. who has built her career at the dynamic intersection of engineering, medical devices, and executive leadership.Denise’s story starts with curiosity in Costa Rica and takes us through academia, entrepreneurship, and boardrooms across the US. She shares how being “naively fearless” helped her navigate male-dominated spaces, why saying yes before you feel ready can change your life, and how she’s now leading Cytrellis Biosystems, Inc. through a major relaunch and cultural transformation.We talk about:🔹 How she discovered her passion for engineering and medical devices🔹 Moving from operations and R&D to the C-suite🔹 The underestimated power of mentors (and why most of hers were men)🔹 Balancing family, ambition, and identity and letting go of perfection🔹 Why authenticity is non-negotiable in her leadership style🔹 Her vision for Cytrellis: expanding from aesthetics to therapeutic and global applications📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Denise and her journey from Costa Rica to the US03:00 – Early career in medical device manufacturing06:00 – Starting (and selling) her first company09:00 – Moving back into academia and building programs for women in STEM12:00 – Returning to industry and finding her voice in leadership15:00 – Mentorship, femtorship, and creating space for other women18:00 – Leading Cytrellis: restructuring, culture, and future growth22:00 – The power of saying yes and preparing later25:00 – Embracing authenticity and setting your own limits28:00 – Cytrellis technology: aesthetics, scars, and beyond🎧 Tune in to hear Denise’s refreshingly real take on leadership, risk-taking, and building a career that’s true to you.#SheLeadsBiotech #DeniseDajles #Cytrellis #WomenInSTEM #BiotechLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #EngineeringLeadership #Femtorship #SayYes #CareerGrowth #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Maria Haugen, founder of Foxx Health a new app designed to help women take control of their health journey and walk into appointments prepared, confident, and heard.Maria’s story began when she experienced terrifying heart symptoms and felt dismissed and misdiagnosed for months. Out of that frustration, she decided to build what she wished she’d had: a health companion app that guides you through questions, tracks symptoms, and helps you advocate for yourself in the exam room.We talk about:🔹 How her personal health scare sparked a new mission🔹 Why women are diagnosed later and feel dismissed more often🔹 The reality of data privacy and building an app during a challenging time for women’s health in the U.S.🔹 Creating checklists, tracking tools, and community connections all in one platform🔹 The future of FoXX Health from global expansion to partnering with doctors📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Maria and her journey from marketing to health tech02:00 – A heart scare that changed everything04:30 – Why women feel dismissed (and the shocking stats)06:30 – How FoXX Health empowers women before appointments09:00 – Privacy, safety, and state-by-state considerations12:00 – The app’s features: checklists, trackers, and community support16:00 – Building partnerships and launching globally18:00 – Future vision: data visualization and empowering providers22:00 – Why it’s about support, not blame🎧 Listen now to learn how one woman turned a personal struggle into a tool to help thousands find their voice in healthcare.#SheLeadsBiotech #FoXXHealth #WomenInHealth #PatientAdvocacy #DigitalHealth #EmpoweredPatients #WomenInSTEM #HealthTechInnovation #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I’m joined by Dr. Maija Cheung, a Yale-trained surgeon and now Chief Medical Officer of Kids Operating Room, a global nonprofit bringing surgical care to children in the world’s most underserved regions.Maija’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From operating rooms in Connecticut to refugee camps in Kenya, she’s traded prestige for purpose , and is now leading efforts to build pediatric ORs in over 35 countries, including Ukraine, Brazil, and Afghanistan.She shares how she navigated gender bias in surgery, why she walked away from full-time clinical work to serve more children globally, and how she’s collaborating with NASA to bring sustainable oxygen and power solutions to low-resource settings.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Dr. Maija Cheung01:30 – Childhood, languages, and a love of technical detail04:00 – From Yale to Uganda: her path through medicine and global surgery06:30 – Gender bias in the surgical world and how she’s changing the narrative12:00 – Building Kids Operating Room: the first 100 ORs in 35+ countries16:00 – A life-changing surgery: the story of one boy, one operation, and a future reclaimed19:00 – Sustainability and strategy: building programs that outlast the charity22:00 – Partnering with NASA for solar-powered oxygen and off-grid surgical care24:00 – Fundraising in a difficult climate and making every gift count28:00 – What’s next for global surgery, and how we get there31:00 – Advice to future medical professionals: forget the mold, follow your mission🎧 Tune in for an honest, deeply inspiring look at what’s possible when medicine meets mission and how one surgeon is helping rewrite the future of global healthcare.#SheLeadsBiotech #MaijaCheung #KidsOR #GlobalSurgery #WomenInSTEM #PediatricSurgery #NonprofitLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #SurgicalAccess #HealthcareInnovation #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I sit down with Elaine Hamm, PhD, scientist, founder, investor, wine bar owner, and Executive in Residence at Tulane University , for a refreshingly honest conversation about what really happens behind the scenes in biotech.Elaine’s story is anything but typical: she started as a piano major, became a microbiologist (inspired by the film Outbreak, no less), and has since built, run, and shut down multiple biotech startups , gaining a reputation for her straight-talking, operations-savvy leadership along the way.💬 “The startup bro life makes failure sound like a badge of honour… but no one talks about what it really feels like.”We talk about:🔹 Her accidental pivot into science and how a burst appendix changed everything🔹 What it takes to make hard calls, shut companies down, and start again🔹 How she navigates fundraising bias as a woman in biotech🔹 The difference between managers and leaders and why it matters🔹 Her secret to building wine bars and biotech teams that actually workThis episode is a heartfelt, hilarious, and unfiltered look at what it takes to lead authentically — and why embracing failure just might be the secret to long-term success.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Elaine Hamm01:00 – From piano major to microbiologist: the unexpected pivot04:30 – Building startups in biotech... and in wine06:00 – The hardest thing she’s ever done (and what it taught her)09:00 – How failure shaped her leadership style12:00 – Managing virtual teams as an introvert16:00 – Talking about failure, fundraising, and female founders23:00 – How to pitch (especially when you're not the default profile)28:00 – Learning to storytell, and why it matters more than ever30:00 – Hosting Bio from the Bayou and communicating science better36:00 – Dog fostering, drug development, and finding your purpose🎧 Listen now for a real-world masterclass in leadership, resilience, and unapologetic authenticity, from someone who's been through it all and still shows up with humour, heart, and a glass of wine.#SheLeadsBiotech #ElaineHamm #WomenInSTEM #AuthenticLeadership #BiotechLeadership #FemaleFounders #StartupLife #ResilienceInBusiness #TulaneUniversity #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Lusine (Lucy) Abgaryan, PhD, MBA, Co-founder of GrittGene Therapeutics, to talk about rare diseases, scientific serendipity, and what it really takes to launch a biotech company from the ground up.Lucy’s journey is anything but typical. Raised in an Armenian observatory town by astrophysicist parents, she studied physics before diving headfirst into biology, earning her PhD in biophysics and working on what would become Zeposia , now an FDA-approved therapy for multiple sclerosis.Now she’s leading GrittGene Therapeutics, an early-stage company pioneering new approaches to myotonic dystrophy type 2. From regenerative cell therapy to repurposing existing drugs, Lucy and her team are thinking differently about how this disease is understood, diagnosed, and treated.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Lucy Abgaryan02:00 – Growing up with scientists in Armenia06:00 – Biophysics, curiosity, and pivoting to biology08:00 – Working on Zeposia and discovering applied science12:00 – Patient-first vs. profit-first: Choosing impact over income14:00 – Her first entrepreneurial lessons in a San Diego garage16:30 – Why she went back for her MBA (and how it changed her path)20:00 – The origin of GrittGene and the mission behind it22:00 – Why DM2 may not be just a neuromuscular disorder24:00 – Building diagnostics, drug repurposing, and personalized therapies28:00 – Challenges moving from academia to startup life32:00 – Hiring for heart, not just experience35:00 – Her bold goal: clinical trials in just four years38:00 – Advice for young scientists and first-time founders🎧 Listen now to hear how Lucy is rewriting the rules, in science, in business, and in what it means to lead with grit.#SheLeadsBiotech #LucyAbgaryan #GrittGeneTherapeutics #RareDiseases #WomenInSTEM #FemaleFounders #BiotechLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #Neuroscience #StartupJourney #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Christin Godale, Executive Director of LifeSciKY and her journey is nothing short of extraordinary.From New York fashion model to neuroscience PhD, Christin’s life changed after a seizure landed her in the hospital and sparked a fascination with the brain. That moment of disruption launched a career that’s taken her from the bench to venture capital to launching Kentucky’s first dedicated life sciences incubator.Now, she’s leading a movement to bring biotech innovation to an unexpected place and building opportunity for the next generation of scientists and founders.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Christin Godale02:00 – From runway to research: how epilepsy changed everything06:00 – Studying neuroscience at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital08:30 – Transitioning from academia to venture capital11:00 – The gender gap in VC and women-led startups14:00 – Why she left VC to build LifeSciKY18:00 – What is a lab incubator, and why does it matter?21:00 – Building from scratch: redesigns, HVAC, and startup grit24:00 – Reviving Kentucky’s biotech ecosystem27:00 – Mentorship, board structure, and advice for young founders31:00 – “You’re never too young or too old to start something that matters.”🎧 Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, reinvention, and redefining what a scientist and a startup leader can look like.#SheLeadsBiotech #ChristinGodale #LifeSciKY #WomenInSTEM #BiotechLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #StartupSupport #FemaleFounders #Neuroscience #EpilepsyAwareness #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Giana Jarrah, Founder & CEO of with Meraki Co—a company breaking barriers in women’s health with science-backed supplements for urinary, vaginal, and reproductive wellness.Giana’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and the power of following your “why.” From her mother’s cancer diagnosis to her own health battles with chronic UTIs, Giana turned frustration into innovation—launching a company that empowers women through education, community, and products built from personal experience and rigorous science.📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Giana Jarrah02:00 – Why biomedical engineering? A family story sparks a passion06:00 – Chronic UTIs and the lack of women’s health education10:00 – Turning frustration into a business: the birth of with Meraki Co13:30 – How Giana funded her startup (and why mentorship matters)18:00 – Building a brand through storytelling and TikTok23:00 – The science behind the products: Clarity, Harmony, and Thrive28:00 – Hormones, immunity, and the future of vaginal wellness31:00 – Mental health, hustle culture, and lessons learned34:00 – What’s next for with Meraki Co? Growing the team, new products, and more🎧 Listen now and be inspired by a founder who’s changing the conversation around women’s health, one product—and one story—at a time.#SheLeadsBiotech #GianaJarrah #WithMerakiCo #WomenInSTEM #FemaleFounders #BiotechLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #WomenInBiotech #LifeSciences

In this special roundtable episode, we sit down with a group of inspiring women from Arbor Biotechnologies to explore their personal and professional journeys in the life sciences. From navigating male-dominated spaces to building confidence and finding authentic leadership voices, these leaders share candid insights into what it means to thrive as women in biotech. They reflect on the power of mentorship, the importance of community, and how Arbor is fostering a supportive environment for women to lead, innovate, and grow.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Arbor Biotechnologies and Personal Journeys08:56 – The Role of Women in Arbor and the Arborenas18:23 – Experiences of Women in Life Sciences21:40 – Unpacking Gender Bias in Leadership23:07 – The Importance of Women Supporting Women24:32 – Finding Authentic Leadership Voices26:50 – Overcoming Challenges in Male-Dominated Spaces30:07 – The Role of Confidence in Leadership35:24 – Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders💬 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you’re passionate about equity in biotech leadership. Drop us a comment—we’d love to hear your take!#SheLeadsBiotech #ArborBiotechnologies #DiversityInSTEM #WomenInBiotech #LifeSciences #MentorshipMatters #FemaleFounders #AuthenticLeadership #WomenInSTEM #CNAInternationalUSA

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox speaks with Beth San Segundo, CEO of OriGen Biomedical, a pioneering medical device company fueling innovation in cell and gene therapy.Beth shares her remarkable journey from pre-med student and cleanroom technician to leading a 200-person company that helps patients walk away from cancer in durable remission. What began as “just a job” at her father’s company became a calling — and a leadership role she took on just as the world shut down.She opens up about stepping into the CEO role before COVID, leading with empathy, and building a workplace where people are proud to come to work. Beth gets candid about culture shifts, communication through crisis, and what it means to lead a mission-driven, life-saving biotech business with curiosity at the core.💬 “We can do hard things.”This is a conversation about legacy, leadership, and building something that changes lives — from the inside out.Chapters/Timecodes:00:00 — Meet Beth San SegundoHer early days in the cleanroom and how the company first started03:00 — From Pre-Med to CEOThe long, winding road that brought her back to OriGen full-time05:00 — Taking the ReinsHow Beth became CEO (and what it was like working with her dad)07:10 — Leading Through COVIDA baptism by fire — navigating crisis, team morale, and supply chains11:00 — Communicating Through ChaosBuilding trust with employees through transparency and empathy13:30 — What OriGen Actually Does“Tupperware for stem cells” and the impact of their medical devices15:45 — Culture, Growth & RecognitionHow OriGen grew from 3 to 200 employees — and why people stay18:00 — Passion vs. ExperienceBeth’s take on hiring, empowerment, and the power of curiosity21:10 — The New RegimeWhat leadership looks like now and how the team rose to the challenge23:15 — Empathetic Leadership in PracticeCelebrating wins, setting boundaries, and leading whole humans26:30 — Advice for the Next GenerationWhy curiosity and joy matter more than linear plans27:50 — What’s Next for OriGenNew innovations on the horizon — and why Beth’s not done yetListen now to hear Beth’s honest, thoughtful, and inspiring take on leading through change, challenge, and impact.#SheLeadsBiotech #BethSanSegundo #OriGenBiomedical #CellAndGeneTherapy #WomenInSTEM #BiotechLeadership #FemaleFounders #AuthenticLeadership #LifeSciences #SharronCoxStudio

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox speaks with Margo Harrison MD MPH, Founder & CEO of Wave Bye Inc. , a trailblazer in women’s intimate wellness, combining innovation and purpose to address a topic most would rather whisper about.Margo shares how a deeply personal experience drove her to create Wave Bye , a biotech startup developing a safe, effective solution for treating recurrent UTIs and supporting vaginal health. From corporate life to startup founder, she opens up about why this mission couldn’t wait, and how trust, courage, and authenticity have shaped her leadership journey.She gets candid about building in a taboo space, balancing vision with regulation, and why she believes the best leaders ask better questions.Chapters / Timecodes:00:00 — Meet Margo HarrisonHer journey from finance and corporate roles to entrepreneurship in women’s health04:40 — Why Wave Bye Had to HappenA personal story becomes a public mission — the painful, pivotal moment that sparked a startup09:15 — Finding Her Voice in a Taboo SpaceHow she built confidence to speak openly and lead authentically13:00 — From Idea to InnovationBehind the science and strategy of Wave Bye’s core technology17:42 — Navigating Regulation and StigmaWhat it takes to pioneer biotech solutions in under-discussed categories23:18 — Advice for Founders in Women’s HealthWhy trust and clarity are non-negotiable — and how to build both27:40 — Building a Brand That Builds BeliefCreating connection and credibility with customers and investors31:52 — What’s Next for Wave Bye Inc.A look ahead at clinical trials, partnerships, and impactListen now to hear Margo’s honest, driven, and insightful take on leading with purpose in biotech.#SheLeadsBiotech #WomenInSTEM #MargoHarrison #WaveBye #BiotechLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #FemaleFounders #WomensHealth #BiotechInnovation

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox speaks with Liia Ramachandra, CEO and founder of EpilLynx — a clinical pharmacist, global pharma leader, and bold entrepreneur who's turning personal health challenges into industry-shifting innovation.Liia shares how she went from VP in big pharma to building a clean, allergy-safe skincare line from her basement — now available in over 500 retailers across the U.S.She opens up about leadership reinvention, navigating bias, and why sometimes the key to growth isn’t leaving — it’s watering your own grass.Chapters / Timecodes:00:00 — Meet Liia RamachandraIntro to her career journey and scientific background03:10 — From Pharma Executive to FounderWhy she walked away from corporate leadership07:30 — Building EpilLynx from ScratchThe inspiration behind her allergy-safe skincare brand12:40 — Burnout, Boundaries, and Starting OverWhat leaving pharma taught her about self-worth and ambition18:15 — Career Advice for Women in BiotechWhy pausing and reflecting matters more than reacting22:45 — Balancing Science, Business, and FamilyReal talk about energy, expectations, and being “too much”26:30 — The Power of Purpose-Driven ProductsHow consumer needs guide innovation at EpilLynx30:55 — Final Takeaways & Leadership ReflectionsWhy authenticity is non-negotiable — and how to protect itListen now to hear Liia’s powerful take on leadership, reinvention, and building something real.#SheLeadsBiotech #WomenInSTEM #LiiaRamachandra #EpilLynx #AuthenticLeadership #CareerTransitions #FemaleFounders #BiotechInnovation

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, I speak with Jessicca Rege, CEO of SUS Clinical — a scientist, mom, and startup leader bringing innovation to the world of cancer drug development with genetically modified OncoPIGs.Jess shares her unconventional path from big pharma to biotech, how she’s navigating leadership as a woman in science, and why authenticity and curiosity are her most powerful tools.Chapters with Timecodes:00:00 — Intro: Meet Jess RegeHow a career in cancer research and a leap of faith led Jess to biotech leadership.02:45 — From Big Pharma to Startup LifeLessons Jess brought with her — and what she had to unlearn.07:10 — OncoPIGs & Preclinical InnovationWhy genetically modified pigs are transforming cancer trials (and her son’s hilarious nickname for her).11:50 — Balancing Business & BiologyThe challenges of leading with both scientific integrity and business strategy.16:30 — Leadership as a Mom and CEOHow Jess blends vulnerability, resilience, and honesty — at home and at work.21:00 — Advice to Women in Science & LeadershipJess’s call to “be deliberate, be focused, and always find your cheerleaders.”24:45 — What’s Next for SUS ClinicalLooking ahead at growth, opportunity, and what keeps Jess curious.

What drives someone to challenge the status quo inhealthcare—and keep pushing, even when the door is slammed shut?In this episode of She Leads Biotech, we sit down withJuliana Elstad, CEO of Vibrato Medical, whose personal story is as powerful as her professional mission. From growing up in the Soviet Union and watching her sister battle a chronic illness, to navigating bias in corporate boardrooms,Juliana shares how loss, grit, and purpose fueled her path into MedTech leadership.You’ll hear how she forced her way into a Fortune 500company—literally—and why she believes entrepreneurship offers a powerful route for women seeking flexibility and impact. We talk career resilience, breaking barriers, and how Vibrato Medical is working to transform treatment forperipheral vascular disease.  Chapters00:00 Journey into Healthcare: A Personal Story12:01 Navigating the Medical Technology Landscape23:54 Empowering Women in Healthcare35:59 Future Aspirations and Advice for Newcomers

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, Sharron Cox sits down with Wendy Winckler, a pioneer in cancer genomics and a leader at the forefront of early cancer detection. From her first spark of scientific curiosity in preschool—dreaming of the stars—to a transformative summer that led her to genetics, Wendy shares a powerful journey shaped by passion, perseverance, and the power of collaboration.Wendy walks us through her career—from academia to high-impact industry roles—and her current work at Droplet Biosciences, where she’s helping revolutionize early cancer detection through the analysis of lymphatic fluid. Along the way, she reflects on what it means to be part of "something big," the lessons she’s learned in the startup world, and why multidisciplinary teamwork is vital to scientific breakthroughs.Whether you're a PhD student plotting your path, a biotech founder navigating innovation, or just curious about the future of cancer diagnostics—this episode is full of insight and inspiration.Chapters00:00 Journey into Science: Wendy Winckler's Path06:24 The Evolution of Cancer Genetics12:20 Transitioning from Pharma to Startup17:59 Innovations in Cancer Diagnostics22:14 Future Aspirations and Leadership Insights

In this episode, Suzanne shares how her first job supporting a physician-researcher at a cancer center sparked a passion that led to a career in biotech leadership. With a sociology and economics degree in hand, she taught herself how trials worked from the ground up — navigating protocols, patient care, operations, and regulatory realities.Today, she’s an influential voice in clinical development, fractional leadership, and industry transformation.💡 Key takeaways:- Why clinical operations welcomes talent from all backgrounds — and how she made it in- The importance of mentors *and* sponsors when navigating biotech- Why she’s a passionate advocate for fractional leadership roles — especially in today’s market- Her take on clinical trial technology and the role AI might play in accelerating outcomes- What we still get wrong about trust, data, and efficiency in biotech innovationAnd most importantly — Suzanne’s commitment to lifting others as she rises, and paying forward the support that helped shape her path.Her message for those just starting out? “You can crack this field from almost anywhere. Be curious. Be resilient. And don’t give up.”Chapters00:00 Introduction 02:14 Career Beginnings in Bioscience06:36 Navigating the Clinical Research Landscape09:31 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship14:01 Empowering Women in Leadership18:58 Fractional Roles and Industry Challenges21:16 Navigating Career Transitions in a Challenging Market24:09 The Rise of Fractional Roles in Business27:38 Adapting to Market Changes: The Need for Flexibility32:41 Embracing Technology in Clinical Development37:15 Advice for Aspiring Professionals in ClinicalOperations

In this episode, Adrienne Mendoza shareshow a deeply personal loss drove her to pursue a mission-led career in blood banking and regenerative medicine. With hands-on experience in quality and regulatory affairs, she made the leap to operations leadership as SVP at BioBridge Global and ultimately stepping into the role of Chief Operating Officer at BBG Advanced Therapies.Chapters00:00 Weather Talk and Introductions02:42 Adrienne's Journey into Blood and Cell Therapy08:01 Transitioning to COO: A Learning Experience12:40 Supportive Leadership and Career Development20:02 BBG Advanced Therapies: A New Era in Medicine23:02 The Future of Cell and Gene Therapy26:16 The Power of Community in Advanced Therapies29:03 Transformative Potential of Advanced Therapies32:29 Challenges in Patient Access to Therapies34:19 Blueprint for Breakthroughs: Insights and Innovations42:08 Advice for Aspiring Leaders in Advanced Therapies