RealPharma: Conversations with Pharma Pathfinders

Unmasking PBMs: Antonio Ciaccia Exposes the Hidden Power Players in Healthcare

SummaryIn this episode, Dr. Na-Ri Oh and Ian Wendt discuss Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) and their impact on drug pricing and patient access to medications.They are joined by Antonio Ciaccia, CEO of 46 Brooklyn Research and president of 3 Access Advisors, which provides insights into the role of PBMs in the drug supply chain.The conversation highlights the consolidation of power among the top three PBMs, their anti-competitive behaviors, and the need for increased scrutiny and regulatory measures. The discussion also explores the distorted incentive structures that favor high-cost drugs over lower-cost alternatives, leading to higher drug costs and limited access for patients.The conversation explores the impact of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) on drug costs and access to medications. The report states that PBMs control about 70% of all specialty drug revenue, leading to the closure of independent retail pharmacies in rural areas. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in the PBM industry.It also discusses the potential solutions, including market-based approaches and policy changes, to address the inefficiencies and anti-competitive behaviors of PBMs.ResourcesAntonio Ciaccia on LinkedInAntonio Ciaccia on Twitter/X3 Axis Advisors46 Brooklyn ResearchFTC Interim Report on PBMs

340B Controversy: Who Really Benefits from Drug Discounts?

In this episode, Dr. Na-Ri Oh and Ian Wendt discuss the 340B drug pricing program with guest William Sarraille, a healthcare law expert.They explore the origins of the program and its intended purpose. However, the program has grown exponentially and is now the second largest drug program in the country. Bill raises concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the program, as well as the impact on patients. He argues that the program should focus on delivering value to patients and ensuring that they benefit from the discounts.The conversation delves into the complexities and challenges of the 340B program, highlighting issues such as the patient definition, transparency, contract pharmacies, and the allocation of funds. The discussion considers the need for a more comprehensive and transparent system that ensures the benefits of the program flow to the patients. They also explore the possibility of implementing a claims data process that provides faster payment and greater certainty for both manufacturers and 340B entities.The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of leadership and collaboration in finding solutions to the program's problems.Resources:William Sarraille on LinkedInHRSA 340B InformationAmerican Hospital Information (AHA) Fact Sheet340BHealth.org

From Biotech Breakthroughs to Food Tech Revolution: Dr. Ron Shigeta’s Journey

SummaryDr. Ron Shigeta, a pioneer in the biotech startup ecosystem, shares his insights and experiences in this episode. He discusses the success of IndieBio, a biotech accelerator that demonstrated the potential of modest investments in fueling biotech innovations.Dr. Shigeta also highlights the importance of timing, luck, and having a clear vision in the biotech industry. He explains the differences between synthetic biology and pharma startups and the challenges and opportunities they present.Additionally, he discusses the factors he considers when evaluating startup opportunities and the mindset of successful entrepreneurs. Finally, he shares his perspective on managing risk in biotech startups and the personal transition of becoming a startup CEO. In this conversation, Ron Shigeta discusses the landscape of venture capital funds and startup incubators, highlighting the importance of fund size and check-writing capabilities. He also explains his attraction to the food industry and the deep structural biology of food. The convergence of food and biotech is explored, with a focus on consumer applications and health-related applications. Ron shares different strategies for innovation and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He discusses promising areas for transformational impact, including the golden age of biology and the future of food and sustainability.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Ron Shigeta01:31 Dr. Shigeta's transition from scientist to biotech startup figure05:19 The impact of IndieBio's small investment model08:43 The economics of biotech startups09:57 Different pathways in biotech: synthetic biology vs. pharma13:42 Factors in evaluating startup opportunities14:09 The mindset of successful entrepreneurs19:35 The importance of company vision and team dynamics22:23 Managing risk in biotech startups27:28 The personal transition of becoming a startup CEO31:23 The risk tolerance of entrepreneurs32:36 Venture Capital Funds and Startup Incubators37:15 The Attraction of the Food Industry42:30 Convergence of Food and Biotech46:12 Innovation in Biotech and Pharma49:37 Different Strategies for Innovation51:42 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs53:47 Promising Areas for Transformational Impact01:01:26 The Golden Age of Biology01:04:51 The Impact of Whole Foods Conference01:08:49 The Future of Food and SustainabilityResources:Ron Shigeta on LinkedInRon Shigeta on X (Twitter)iAccelerate

From the Forest to your Pharmacy: Dr. Steven King’s Ethnobotanical Journey

In this enlightening episode of the RealPharma Podcast, hosts Ian Wendt and Dr. Nari Oh sit down with Dr. Steven King, a luminary in the field of ethnobotanical research and sustainable pharmaceutical development. Dr. King, currently serving as the Chief Sustainable Supply, Ethnobotanical Research, and IP Officer at Jaguar Health, shares his remarkable journey from a young adventurer in the Amazon rainforest to a pioneering figure in the integration of traditional botanical knowledge with modern medicine.Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of ethnobotany, exploring how Dr. King's lifelong passion for plant-based healing has led to groundbreaking developments in the pharmaceutical industry. Discover the story behind the Croton lechleri tree, popularly known as the Dragon's Blood tree, and how its unique properties have been harnessed to create an FDA-approved medication derived from this Amazonian marvel.Dr. King offers insights into his early experiences living with indigenous communities in South America, learning about their traditional uses of plants for medicine, and the ethical considerations involved in bringing these ancient practices into the global market. We discuss the importance of sustainability and respectful collaboration with local communities, emphasizing the crucial balance between conservation and commerce.This episode also touches on the broader implications of Dr. King’s work, from his contributions to the Healing Forest Conservatory to the role of bioethics in the commercialization of traditional knowledge. As the conversation unfolds, we explore the exciting future of plant-based therapeutics and the potential for ethnobotanical research to address some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.Tune in for a captivating discussion that spans decades of exploration, scientific discovery, and cultural exchange, highlighting how ancient wisdom can inform and transform modern healthcare.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ethnobotany02:04 Biocultural Diversity and Pharmaceutical Development13:20 The Croton lechleri Tree and its Medicinal Uses15:59 Ethnobotanical Research vs. Traditional Drug Development21:39 Intellectual Property and Benefit-Sharing24:27 Ethical and Sustainable Practices in Working with Indigenous Communities28:27 Respecting Indigenous Knowledge and Rights in Plant-Based Medicine Development34:03 The Financial Benefits of Commercializing Plant-Based Drugs for Indigenous Communities36:23 The Potential Therapeutic Applications of Psychedelic ResearchResources:Dr. Steven King - LinkedInOne River: Explorations and Discoveries in the Amazon Rain ForestPlants, People, and Culture: The Science of Ethnobotany

Command the Room: Dr. Laura Sicola’s Strategies for Executive Communication Excellence

Command the Room: Dr. Laura Sicola's Strategies for Executive Communication ExcellenceHosts: Dr. Na-Ri Oh and Ian WendtIn this episode of the Real Pharma Podcast, we delve into the intricacies of effective executive communication with Dr. Laura Sicola, a renowned expert in leadership communication and cognitive linguistics. Dr. Sicola has spent over two decades transforming top-level executives into confident, inspiring leaders. Her unique approach, grounded in cognitive linguistics, empowers professionals to communicate their passion and expertise effectively, ensuring they get the buy-in they need for the results they want.Join us as we explore these topics and more, providing valuable insights for pharma professionals and anyone looking to enhance their executive communication skills. Dr. Sicola's expertise offers a roadmap to becoming a more effective and inspiring leader.Chapters00:00:00 - Introduction to WIFM: What's In It For Me?00:00:34 - Real Pharma Podcast Introduction00:01:02 - Introducing Dr. Laura Sicola00:02:37 - Welcome and TEDx Talk Discussion00:03:51 - Defining Linguistics00:04:41 - Importance of How You Say It00:05:52 - The Myth of Content vs. Delivery00:07:01 - The Linguistic Glass Ceiling00:09:06 - Transitioning from Technical Expertise to Leadership00:11:04 - Your Work Speaks for Itself, But Not for You00:12:24 - Developing Leadership Skills00:13:07 - The Challenge of Self-Awareness00:15:33 - Recording Yourself for Self-Diagnosis00:17:16 - Impact of COVID on Communication00:18:48 - Basic Skills for Effective Communication00:20:14 - Executive Presentations: What's In It For Them?00:23:05 - Seeking Constructive Feedback00:25:27 - Common Reasons for Seeking Coaching00:27:05 - The Expert's Curse00:29:37 - The Gift of Clear Feedback00:30:39 - Proactively Seeking Feedback00:32:14 - Questions to Ask for Constructive Feedback00:35:01 - The Importance of Diverse Feedback00:36:20 - Communicating Complex Data Effectively00:37:04 - The Role of Slide Design in Communication00:40:13 - The Value of Interpretation and Insights00:41:17 - Two Versions of PowerPoint: Pre-Read and Presentation00:43:08 - The $200 is $200 RuleResourcesFind Dr. Laura Sicola on:LinkedInTwitterlaurasicola.comSpeaking To InfluenceTEDx Talk

Drug Importation Debate: Ilisa Bernstein on the Global Pill

SummaryIlisa Bernstein, a senior Vice President at the American Pharmacists Association, discusses the history and current landscape of drug importation policies with a focus on Florida's program.Safety concerns, supply chain issues, and intellectual property rights are key considerations. The impact on the Canadian drug supply and the transparency of imported drugs for consumers are also discussed. Manufacturer concerns regarding rebates and discounts, as well as potential oversupply and export restrictions, are highlighted. The conversation explores the complexities and concerns surrounding drug importation programs. It discusses the mechanisms that manufacturers may use to control drug importation, such as restricting volume or increasing prices. The potential impact on the drug supply in Canada and the need for policies to protect it are also examined. The logistical challenges at the border and the vulnerabilities in the drug supply chain are highlighted. The importance of maintaining patient confidence in drug quality and the risks associated with personal drug importation are discussed. The conversation concludes by considering alternative solutions to lower drug prices and the inspiration drawn from historical figures.Chapters00:00 Introduction of Ilisa Bernstein01:19 Background on Drug Importation08:21 Safety Concerns10:04 Supply Chain and Drug Source14:58 Transparency and IP Issues20:57 Consumer Transparency and NDC Numbers21:10 Intellectual Property Concerns22:59 Challenges and Points of Contention25:12 Manufacturer Concerns: Rebates and Discounts28:06 Oversupply and Export Restrictions29:09 Mechanisms to Control Drug Importation30:39 Policies to Protect Drug Supply in Canada31:12 Logistical Challenges at the Border33:07 Vulnerabilities in the Drug Supply Chain35:03 Maintaining Patient Confidence in Drug Quality36:31 Risks Before the Border38:01 Complexities and Concerns for Community Pharmacists41:31 The Future of Drug Importation Programs44:00 The Motivation Behind Drug Importation Programs46:01 Exploring Other Solutions to Lower Drug Prices48:19 The Illegality of Personal Drug Importation49:05 Balancing Cost Savings and Patient Safety50:02 Inspiration from Historical FiguresResources:Ilisa BernsteinAmerican Pharmacists AssociationThe Partnership for Safe Medicines

Navigating Your Biopharma Career: A Masterclass with Recruiter Kristiaan Rawlings

SummaryIn this episode, Kristiaan Rawlings discusses the 2024-2025 Commercial Market Update and Salary Guide produced by EPM Scientific. The life sciences sector remains resilient due to aging populations, scientific advances, and robust investment. Hiring practices and compensation are influenced by these factors across the Americas, Europe, and APAC regions. The hiring focus has shifted from life-threatening diseases to more common health issues, such as dermatology and respiratory diseases. The most in-demand roles include marketing, commercial operations (salesforce effectiveness, commercial analytics, and training), and sales. Market access roles have seen less demand. Despite the availability of talent, salaries have remained high or even increased. In this conversation, Kristiaan Rawlings discusses the current trends in the life sciences job market, specifically in the commercial operations field. He explains the increase in demand for talent, the impact of title deflation, and the rise in salaries. He also highlights the regional differences in job opportunities, with a shift towards the East Coast of the United States. Additionally, he touches on the importance of executive presence and the return of in-person networking events. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of the life sciences job market.Chapters00:00 High Demand for Marketing Roles04:26 Focus on Core Areas with Existing Blockbuster Products05:53 Sought-After Skills for Commercial Operations and Product Launches13:54 Challenges with LinkedIn Applications and Fake Job Postings24:25 Selective Market Based on Therapy Area and Experience24:51 The Three Pillars of Focus: Salesforce Effectiveness, Commercial Analytics, and Training25:21 High Demand for Talent in Incentive Compensation, Analytics, and Competitive Intelligence26:17 Sales Roles in High Demand During Product Launches26:46 Quiet Market in the Field of Market Access27:14 Salaries Holding Strong or Increasing Despite High Supply of Talent32:30 Geography Becoming Less of a Factor in Salary and Opportunity41:08 High Demand for Medical Affairs and Health Economics44:01 The Importance of Executive Presence and Networking for Career SuccessResourcesKristiaan Rawlings - LinkedIn2024/2025 EPM Commercial Update and Salary Guide

Pioneering Precision: Kira Dineen on Genetics’ Role in Tailored Therapies

SummaryIn this episode, hosts Ian Wendt and Dr. Na-Ri Oh , and guest Kira Dineen discuss the intersection of genomics and healthcare. They explore the concept of personalized medicine and how advancements in genomics are revolutionizing healthcare. Kira shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her DNA Today podcast. The conversation delves into the technology behind personalized medicine and the challenges of building comprehensive genetic databases. The ethical considerations of genomics, including access to information and the potential misuse of genetic data, are also explored. The episode concludes with a discussion on the need for ethical frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements in genomics. The conversation explores the controversial topic of gene editing, particularly the use of CRISPR technology. The hosts discuss the ethical considerations and the choice of genetic targets for editing. They also touch on the accessibility and long-term consequences of CRISPR. The conversation then shifts to the cost of treatment and the role of genetic testing in drug development. The potential of AI in genetic research is explored, as well as the future of personalized medicine. The episode concludes with a discussion on professional motivation and the importance of networking.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kira Dineen and the Intersection of Genomics and Healthcare02:07 Genomics and Personalized Medicine04:13 Kira Dineen's Personal Journey and the DNA Today Podcast08:08 The Trend Towards Personalized Medicine in Biopharma10:11 The Technology Behind Personalized Medicine12:39 Building Databases and Overcoming Barriers15:18 Ethical Considerations in Genomics20:39 Ethics and the Use of Genetic Information24:06 Ethics Keeping Pace with Technological Advances25:44 Managing Ethical Considerations in Genetic Research27:21 Controversial Gene Editing28:18 Choosing Genetic Targets29:10 Ethical Considerations29:44 Accessibility of CRISPR30:13 Long-Term Consequences of CRISPR32:51 Healthcare Equity and Cost of Treatment34:25 Cost of Genomic Sequencing35:22 Genetic Testing and Drug Development38:13 Role of Genetic Testing in Clinical Trials42:20 AI in Genetic Research46:34 Future of Personalized Medicine49:56 Professional Motivation and NetworkingResources:Kira Dineen, MS, LCGC, CG(ASCP)CM (LInkedIn, Twitter)DNAtoday.comBreath from Salt (DNA Today author interview Episode #147)Maury Povich interview on DNA Today Patient Empowerment Program: A Rare Disease Podcast 

Venture Capital & Biopharma: Jim Trenkle on Pioneering Health Innovation

Dive into the high-stakes world of Venture Capital in biopharma with Jim Trenkle! Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn groundbreaking scientific discoveries into life-saving treatments? What role do venture capitalists play in this thrilling journey from the lab to the clinic? This episode peels back the curtain on the biopharma venture capital scene, revealing the risks, rewards, and radical innovations driving the future of healthcare. Join hosts Dr. Na-Ri Oh and Ian Wendt as they explore with Jim the secrets of successful biopharma investments, the challenges of navigating the complex landscape of medical research funding, and the thrilling potential of the next big breakthroughs. Don't miss this conversation that could change the way you see medicine and innovation.In this episode, Jim Trenkle, a partner at Nova Holdings, shares insights on venture capital in the biopharma industry. He explains the different stages of investment, from seed rounds to IPOs, and the role of venture capitalists in providing capital and expertise.Jim discusses the current state of raising capital for biotech startups, including the impact of interest rates and market conditions. He also highlights the challenges and evaluation criteria in biotech VC, emphasizing the importance of a well-thought-out plan and addressing unmet needs.Jim Trenkle also discusses his own career path and the importance of finding work that has a deeper impact. He shares his journey from being a medicinal chemist to venture capital, highlighting the value of lifelong learning and broadening one's impact. Trenkle also discusses the challenges and skills required in venture capital, emphasizing the need for humility and the ability to make decisions that have a real impact. He reflects on the lessons learned from the Theranos scandal and the role of venture capitalists in evaluating companies.Trenkle explores the reasons behind company closures and failures in the biopharma industry and the potential for innovation and technological advances to shape the future of venture capital. He concludes with advice on career growth and the importance of following one's passion.Chapters00:00 Introduction of Jim Trankel01:01 Understanding Venture Capital in BioPharma07:59 The Current State of Raising Capital for Biotech Startups11:23 The Landscape of Biotech Funding16:25 Challenges and Evaluation in Biotech VC23:16 What Does Good Look Like and Pitfalls to Avoid31:19 Jim Trankel's Career Path31:59 Career Path and Impact35:19 Challenges and Skills in Venture37:05 Evaluating Companies and Capital Allocators38:23 Lessons from Theranos46:01 Company Closures and Failures52:42 The Future of VC in Biopharma58:32 Advice and MentorsResourcesJim Trenkle, PhD (LinkedIn)Novo Holdings1. **2024 US Venture Capital Outlook | PitchBook**: Provides predictions for the US VC ecosystem in 2024, including insights on unicorn companies and valuation trends2. **2024 Venture Capital Trends: Opportunities and Challenges - Founders Network**: Discusses the shift towards startups demonstrating strong fundamentals and a clear path to profitability3. **2024 Outlook: Private Equity & Venture Capital - Cambridge Associates**: Highlights the expected increase in capital flows to private European turnaround and value strategies4. **5 Trends to Watch: 2024 Venture Capital | Greenberg Traurig LLP**: Governance issues and IPO momentum are among the trends highlighted for VC in 20245. **Global Venture Capital Outlook: The Latest Trends | Bain & Company**: Covers a broad range of industries and the impact on venture capital funding6. **4 Important Venture Capital Trends (2024-2026) | Exploding Topics**: Explores equity crowdfunding platforms like WeFunder and StartEngine, highlighting their growth and impact on the startup funding landscape7. **Venture capital market to seek new floor in 2024 | EY - US**: Provides insights into the economic headwinds impacting investor appetite and the outlook for the VC market in 20248. **5 Venture Capital Trends to Watch in 2024 | Coresignal**: Discusses portfolio diversification and the role of cryptocurrency in VC trends9. **Top 4 Trends in Venture Capital for 2024 | Allvue Systems**: Highlights the opportunities in the European VC market and the ongoing interest in AI and biotech startups10. **2024 Trends in Venture Capital | Deloitte US**: Offers a perspective on the state of the IPO market, with AI as a potential catalyst for change

Decoding HEOR: Iris Tam’s Insights on Pharma’s Value-Based Future

Join us on a deep dive into the world of Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR) with the remarkable Iris Tam, PharmD, a luminary in value-based evidence generation within the biopharma industry. In this episode, our hosts Ian and Na-Ri explore with Iris the critical role of HEOR in transforming today's pharmaceutical landscape, from drug development to global marketing strategies and beyond.Unpacking the complexities of HEOR, they delve into its definition, significance, and the evolving importance of this field in aligning drug development with payer expectations and patient outcomes. Iris shares invaluable insights on the key elements that payers scrutinize in HEOR studies, and the strategic considerations essential for successful global product launches. Ethical considerations in HEOR research also take center stage, highlighting the responsibility of ensuring integrity and patient-centricity in evidence generation. For professionals eager to make their mark in HEOR or advance their careers, Iris offers sage advice, emphasizing the need for robust data, the value of learning from post-mortems, and the art of using failures to forge successful future strategies.This episode is not just an exploration of HEOR's impact on healthcare but a guide to understanding the challenges of demonstrating product value and the crucial role of user adoption. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, Iris's journey and insights offer inspiration and guidance for navigating the complexities of HEOR in the biopharma industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction of Iris Tam02:08 Definition and Significance of HEOR04:07 Evolution and Increasing Role of HEOR07:49 Components of HEOR: Health Economics and Outcomes Research10:26 Impact of HEOR on Drug Development and Marketing Strategies25:46 Key Elements for Payers in HUR Studies38:47 Considerations for HUR in Global Launches41:35 Ethical Considerations in HUR Research46:41 Skills and Experiences for Success in HUR51:49 The importance of user adoption52:01 Learning from post mortems53:01 Using failures to inform future strategies53:55 The challenge of proving product benefits54:23 Closing thoughts and adviceResources:Iris TamCoeus Consulting GroupISPOR HEOR ResourcesISPOR Top 10 HEOR Trends