The Real Chemistry Podcast

Discover how personalized treatments crafted with cultural sensitivity and cutting-edge science can enhance patient outcomes and how collaborations in tech and advocacy can pave the way for earlier, more effective cancer interventions.

Explore the delicate balance between technological efficiency and the personal touch crucial in health experiences. Panelists will discuss the innovative approaches they’re taking to synergize human empathy with AI to create hyper-personalized communications that respect individual preferences and cultural contexts.

A health economist, blogger, two-time author, and keynote speaker, Jane Sarasohn-Kahn is a renowned leader in the healthcare space. On this episode, she discusses health citizenship, its potential impact on the upcoming election, the continuous evolution of technology and healthcare, and what she’s most looking forward to in the future.

Discover the cutting-edge world of RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics with Dr. Akshay Vaishnaw, Chief Innovation Officer at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. In this episode, Dr. Vaishnaw sheds light on the groundbreaking concept of RNAi therapeutics, offering a powerful new approach to treating a wide range of diseases. Learn how Alnylam Pharmaceuticals is revolutionizing healthcare with its unwavering commitment to innovation, despite facing numerous setbacks and challenges along the way.

Want to know what it takes to create award-winning work in healthcare advertising? Check out our final Cannesplaining Healthcare podcast episode, live from the 2024 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, featuring our 21GRAMS, a part of Real Chemistry, creative leaders as they explore the intersection of creativity, marketing and healthcare. Discover how to make your health advertising stand out with insights from Real Chemistry Chief Creative Officer & 21GRAMS Managing Founder Frank Mazzola, 21GRAMS Executive Creative Director Lauren Polina, Chief Creative Officer Tom Richards and Executive Creative Director Chris Charles.

Live from the 2024 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, join us as we explore the intersection of creativity, marketing and healthcare during our latest Cannesplaining Healthcare podcast episode featuring Genentech Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Dr. Erica Taylor, 21GRAMS Managing Founder & Real Chemistry Chief Creative Officer Frank Mazzola, and 21GRAMS Executive Creative Director Lauren Pollina. Discover how Genentech is modernizing marketing in the pharmaceutical industry and gain insights into the importance of creativity, the challenge of incorporating levity into health marketing and the value of early regulatory involvement in marketing campaigns. Learn from Dr. Erica Taylor's unique journey to her role as CMO and explore the evolving nature of marketing in healthcare.

Live from the 2024 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, join us for a discussion on the future of healthcare innovation and creativity. In this episode, Collette Douaihy, Dentsu Health Global CCO and President of Cannes Lions 2024 Pharma Jury, 21GRAMS Global CCO Tom Richards and 21GRAMS Executive Creative Director Chris Charles delve into the importance of patient-centricity, building strong client relationships and the ethical use of AI in healthcare. Discover insights on how to create impactful work and stay ahead in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

In the lead up to ASCO 2024, we hosted a discussion on the dynamic landscape of oncology today, looking through the lens of this year’s meeting theme: the art and science of cancer care. Within two featured mini panels, we reviewed key trends and innovations and highlighted how intersections between art and science can help us change the face and future of the cancer experience. Touching on areas like advocacy, AI, screening and therapeutic advances, this can’t miss conversation will help us envision a more effective and compassionate future in oncology.   The Art: The art of improving patient care. How industry collaborations, data-based messaging and campaigns and advocacy are helping to reach more patients earlier and more holistically. Ysabel Duron, Founder, President / Executive Director, The Latino Cancer Institute  Meredith Owen, Chief Revenue Officer, Analytics & Insights Group, Real Chemistry Shanthi Sivendran, MD, MSCR, MBA, Senior Vice President, Cancer Care Support, American Cancer Society  Jewel Jones, Global Inclusion & Health Equity Practice Leader, Real Chemistry   The Science: The latest therapeutics advancements in oncology. How technology is helping industry better engage providers and democratize science via visualization to help improve outcomes. HP Balaji, Senior Medical Director and TA Head, Bladder Cancer, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Brandon Pletsch, President, Scientific Visualization and Exhibit Experience, Real Chemistry

Health worker burnout is soaring. A global shortage of providers, an aging population and more complicated Medicare requirements, has increased stress and exhaustion for HCPs. Innovative solutions are needed to ensure high-quality patient care and a sustainable health system. This panel will discuss how AI is helping alleviate pressure on providers while still prioritizing patient privacy and safety. From summarizing journals, to asking an AI agent about dosing or side effects, AI is removing friction so health workers can handle complex engagements, listening, and building relationships.

With innovative new approaches to diagnosis and treatment in oncology, the cancer mortality rate has dropped year over year for the last decade. But there is still work to be done, especially as we see increasing cancer incidence among certain populations. But what work is happening today that will shape the face of cancer and the patient experience in the future? Wendy Short Bartie (Bristol Myers Squibb), Maimah Karmo (Tigerlily Foundation), and Emily Poe (Real Chemistry) bring together a tapestry of perspectives, from advocacy and equity, research, prevention and holistic care to envision the next 10 years of progress in cancer.

While there is undeniable hope for the future of cancer care, systemic barriers still impact access for many patients – particularly those in underserved communities. This session, originally recorded in front of a live audience at SXSW 2024, examines how increasing collaboration and partnerships among organizations that touch all aspects of the cancer journey and reach patients, providers and treatment centers, is critical to expanding access to optimal cancer care and making the goals of the “Cancer Moonshot” a reality. Hear from City of Hope, American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), and American Cancer Society (ACS) about how they are approaching partnerships to create a future where every cancer patient has access to the care they need.

In this episode, Suzanne Jacobs, Group President of Medical at Real Chemistry, and Trina Stonner, President of Avant Healthcare, discuss Real Chemistry’s newly announced acquisition of Avant Healthcare, how the two companies came together and have similar ethos of supporting physicians in advancing patient care, and how the future of medical communications will involve a combination of data, creativity, AI, and human expertise.

It's time to talk about cancer prevention and early detection. Join us as we explore the importance of early detection and prevention in the fight against cancer with Dr. Karen Knudsen, CEO of the American Cancer Society, and Jim Weiss, Founder and Chairman at Real Chemistry. Tune in to learn about the role of the American Cancer Society in research, advocacy and patient support, the importance of genetic testing in understanding cancer risk and the future of cancer testing and the role of AI.

Listen to our latest podcast with Peter Lee, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Research & Incubations, and Brandon Pletsch, Practice Leader of Scientific Visualization at Real Chemistry, to learn about the applications and implications of generative AI, specifically GPT-4, in healthcare and other fields. They explore public perceptions of AI, its potential benefits and risks, the importance of ethical considerations and regulatory guidelines, and the concept of equitable access to AI in healthcare. Check out the episode to gain insight into how AI can revolutionize fields outside of human language and thought.

In this episode, Ajit Singh, PhD, Managing Director and General Partner at Artiman Ventures, shares his insights on various aspects of healthcare, his approach to leadership and decision-making and his thoughts on the future of healthcare. From AI to oncology to neuro technology, Ajit covers it all.

Learn more about the inspiring journey of Jason Gardner, Head of Medical at Real Chemistry, and his views on AI and DE&I in healthcare. From his father's struggle with multiple sclerosis to his strategic approach to medical communications, Jason shares his unique perspectives on how diverse thinking and experiences can bring value to the healthcare industry.

In this episode, National Pharmaceutical Council (NPC) President and CEO John O'Brien, PharmD, MPH, joins Real Chemistry’s Founder and Chairman, Jim Weiss, to discuss the pharmaceutical industry, the value assessment of medicines, the role of government in drug pricing and the importance of research in healthcare policy. Tune in to get the latest insights on the lack of clarity in government guidelines, the hostile environment for the pharmaceutical industry, the shift in benefits and the rise in patient costs, and the need for more transparency and value-based care.

Misinformation in the digital age is a complex problem, but it can be addressed. In this episode, Dr. Geeta Nayyar, former Chief Medical Officer at Salesforce and AT&T, discusses her book, Dead Wrong, and the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Tune in to learn more about the importance of trust in the healthcare industry, the role of life sciences companies in combating misinformation and the necessity of health literacy and prevention.

In this episode, Javeria Shahab, President of Medical Education at 21GRAMS, a part of Real Chemistry, discusses the challenges and changes in the medical education industry, building effective teams and the importance of empathy in healthcare communications. Get an insider's look into the industry and hear Javeria's advice for those looking to break into the field.

In this episode, Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellmann, Member of President Biden’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology and former CEO of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Mike Huckman, Global Practice Leader of Executive Communications at Real Chemistry, and Jim Weiss, Founder and Chairman at Real Chemistry, discuss the importance of vaccination, the evolution of cancer treatments and the challenges of clinical trials. They also highlight the need for diverse representation in clinical trials, the implications of the Inflation Reduction Act on the pharmaceutical industry and the influence of science in public health and policymaking.

In this episode, Dr. Julie Gerberding, President and CEO of the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH), Dr. Jay Bradner, FNIH board member and former President of the Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, and Jim Weiss, Founder and Chairman at Real Chemistry and FNIH board member, discuss the power of collaboration, how trust in science is essential for progress, emerging areas in medicine and the challenges of the current healthcare landscape. Listen to the full episode to gain valuable insights and to learn how FNIH is pioneering public-private partnerships to tackle complex health issues.

In this episode, Mark Martin, Managing Director at Houlihan Lokey, and Jim Weiss, Founder and Chairman at Real Chemistry, explore the healthcare marketing and commercialization industry, including the impact of data and technology, trends in acquisitions and deals, and the importance of organic growth and innovation.

Digital medicine is essential for improving healthcare and addressing issues related to access and equity. In the latest episode, learn about the importance of digital medicine, the challenges and opportunities in the industry and the importance of an integrated evidence plan. Plus, CEO and Co-Founder of the Digital Medicine Society (DiMe), Jennifer Goldsack, shares her thoughts on generative AI and advice for young professionals in healthcare. As part of DiMe’s upcoming Integrated Evidence Plans for Digital Health Products (IEP) project, leaders in digital health product development, regulation, reimbursement and commercial strategy will partner with payers, purchasers, policymakers, clinicians and patient groups to identify core components of an integrated evidence plan. If you would like to engage in this project and help streamline the path to regulatory and commercial success to optimize health outcomes for the greatest number of patients, learn more and share your interest to join (https://dimesociety.org/access-resources/evidence-defined/#iep-form).

Did you know that there are more than 100 types of liver diseases that affect 1.5 billion people worldwide? Join us as we explore the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing liver health issues, the role of digital health and equity, and the future of liver health with Donna Cryer, J.D., Founder, President and CEO of the Global Liver Institute. Get the inside scoop on the latest developments in the field of liver health and how they can improve patient outcomes and access to care.

Space exploration and research are rapidly advancing, and life sciences is a key component of this progress. Learn more about the opportunities and developments in space R&D and manufacturing, particularly in the life sciences sector, from Maureen Haverty, VP of Investment at Seraphim Space/Generation Space.

In this episode with Biotricity CEO and Founder Waqaas Al-Siddiq, PhD, discover how AI is transforming healthcare and how Biotricity's Bioheart device is helping to manage and prevent cardiac conditions.

Communication is a critical skill for leaders and company culture. In this episode, Real Chemistry Founder and Chairman Jim Weiss is joined by Sally Susman, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of Pfizer and author of "Breaking Through," who shares her insights on the importance of communication in leadership, building corporate and product brands, and navigating challenging conversations.

Recorded live from SXSW 2023, 7wire Ventures Co-Founder & Managing Partner Lee Shapiro explores how technology, data and collaboration can be used to make healthcare more personalized, efficient and cost-effective, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.

With tools like ChatGPT and DALL-E dominating news cycles, many people – especially those working in creative jobs – are wondering if they will soon be replaced by the technology known as generative AI. During this session, originally recorded in front of a live audience at SXSW 2023, Sameer Grover, CNS Sr. Specialty Division Manager at AbbVie, and Romain Bogaerts, Director of AI Product Management at Real Chemistry, discuss what impact generative AI is having on the creative process, particularly in the healthcare space. Who is using generative AI, and where do we see things headed over the next 6-12 months (or weeks?)

Recorded live from SXSW 2023, Alison Woo, Head of Strategy, Planning and Paid Campaigns, Communications & Government Affairs at GSK, shares what a day in her life looks like, what she gathered at SXSW this year and what it means to be disruptive at a company without being too disruptive.

This presentation, originally recorded in front of a live audience at SXSW 2023, showcases key stories and perspectives on what a day in the life of a leader at Bristol-Myers Squibb looks like. From their experiences and challenges to how their focus on patients drives them to continue to strive in their role during these truly complicated times. Panelists: Dr. Rosanna Ricafort, Vice President, Cell Therapy Clinical Development, Bristol-Myers Squibb Bryant Powell, Associate Director & Chief of Staff, Bristol-Myers Squibb (Co-moderator) Aaron Strout, Chief Marketing Officer, Real Chemistry (Co-moderator)

This panel, originally recorded in front of a live audience at SXSW 2023, discusses innovative data sources for clinical trial recruitment and how to maximize their effectiveness. The panel explores a range of innovative data sources, such as online platforms, real world data and social networks, and how they can be used to find the right candidates for a study. The panelists discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different data sources, such as the potential cost savings, access to a larger pool of potential participants and the ability to target specific populations. They also discuss potential ethical considerations, such as protecting participant privacy and ensuring that the data used is accurate and up-to-date. Panelists Bryan Hansen, Director of Data Science & Digital Health Neuroscience, Johnson & Johnson Maimah Karmo, CEO & President, Tigerlily Foundation Joan Severson, Chief Innovation Officer, Clinical Ink Aaron Strout, Chief Marketing Officer, Real Chemistry (Host)

Recorded live from SXSW 2023, Founder & Chief Trend Curator of the Non-Obvious Company Rohit Bhargava joins us to discuss why he continues to come back to SXSW, how the event has evolved and his new book co-authored with Henry Coutinho-Mason, The Future Normal, which leans into healthcare trends.

Indigenous futurist and technologist Dr. Keolu Fox joins us this week to discuss how increased diversity in clinical trials can transform healthcare for underserved populations and for the overall healthcare system.

This week, CEO & Founder of Papa Andrew Parker joins the podcast and discusses how his company is empowering a new kind of healthcare built on human connection. Papa, a platform that connects older adults with Pals who provide companionship and assistance, seeks to address the caregiving shortage and support the US healthcare system’s Triple Aim.

Annalisa Jenkins, MBBS, Non Executive Director at Compass Pathways & Jim Weiss, Founder and Chairman at Real Chemistry, join the podcast this week to discuss women in life sciences leadership roles, novel approaches to disease areas such as infectious diseases and cancer, and using AI for a more effective healthcare system.

Chas Bountra, PhD, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Innovation & Professor for Translational Medicine at the University of Oxford, and Jim Weiss, Founder & CEO of Real Chemistry, join this week’s episode to discuss accelerating healthcare through novel ideas and the importance of collaborating across organizations, industries and countries.

Founder and CEO of The Garage, Pranam Ben, joins us to discuss the future of value-based care and The Garage’s approach of using technology and data to solve for equity and access issues facing the healthcare industry. Read The Garage’s blog post, Tiny Tasty Morsels, to learn about their Quintuple Aim approach to change healthcare for good.

In this week’s episode, Christopher Boone, PhD, VP & Global Head of Health Economic Outcomes and Research (HEOR) at AbbVie, discusses the changing landscape of HEOR, the importance of leadership, collaboration and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry, and the story behind his Twitter handle, DataHippie.

In this week’s episode, Surescripts CEO Frank Harvey discusses how Surescripts is improving healthcare data interoperability and better empowering pharmacists to provide primary care to patients.

Huma VP of Primary Care & Clinical Partnerships Harpreet Sood, MD discusses shifts in the digital health market and how Huma differentiates itself through a focus on patient centricity and collaboration across healthcare systems and teams.

Data and technology should make physicians’ lives simpler, not more complicated. Matt Titus, VP & Chief Commercial Officer, epocrates, shares how his team is making an impact.

Working toward creating better patient outcomes and experiences is something we have in common with Elle Cole, Founder of Cleverly Changing, Patient Advocate & Author.

The doctor will see you now! Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, Professor of Medicine, UCSF, is back on the show, and she’s talking about all things COVID-19, flu, and vaccines.

Investing in marketing and analytics is critical to navigating your organization successfully. Mark Stouse, Chairman & CEO of Proof, and Jim Weiss, Founder & Chairman of Real Chemistry, join the show to discuss this and the current state of marketing.

Mary Stutts, Real Chemistry’s Chief Global Health Equity and Inclusion Officer, is back on the show to discuss why investing in health equity makes our industry more inclusive, digitally driven, equitable, and, ultimately, more profitable.

Addressing aging is a challenge that our client Juliette Han, PhD, COO and CFO of Cambrian BioPharma, welcomes because it's universal. Learn how Dr. Han and her team are aiming to increase "healthspan."

This week’s guest is dedicated to accelerating the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) mission. Alice Lin Pomponio joins the show to discuss how the BrightEdge Fund accelerates the ACS’ goal to reduce cancer mortality, end pain and suffering, and advance health equity. Plus, she shares her love of a hit Broadway musical.

Marcus Sawyerr, Founder & CEO of EQ Community, rejoins the show, but a lot has changed since the last time we spoke, like his mission to accelerate diversity and inclusion. And some things have remained the same, like his appreciation of JAY-Z.

Inventor, trailblazer and one of the 100 most influential people in the world, according to TIME Magazine, Mary Lou Jepsen, Ph.D., joins the show. She shares how her company, Openwater, is changing the game in neurotherapeutics and why she'd want a record player on a deserted island.  Learn more about this incredible work via Dr. Jepsen’s Life Itself talk.