Power to the Patients

What if treating Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases requires rethinking the problem entirely - not removing plaques or correcting neurotransmitter deficits, but reactivating the brain’s built-in ability to focus, remember, and repair itself?


In this episode of Power to the Patients, host Brandon Li sits down with Dr. Gabriel Vargas, Chief Medical Officer at CuraSen Therapeutics, to explore how adrenergic system modulators could offer both symptomatic relief and potential disease-modifying effects for neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions - challenging the dominance of amyloid-focused approaches in Alzheimer's research.


So, whether you're naviga...

In this episode, host Brandon Li speaks with Cuong Do, CEO of BioVie, to explore the intersection of inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. Drawing from his remarkable journey from Vietnam to McKinsey to biotech entrepreneurship, Do shares insights on drug development, clinical trials, and the future of CNS therapeutics.
What You'll Learn:- Why inflammation may be the hidden link between Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Long COVID
- How to design effective clinical trials by minimizing variability and selecting objective endpoints
- The critical advantage of small molecules that can cross the blood-brain barrier
- Why the amyloid...

The future of psychedelic medicine lies in non-hallucinogenic compounds that could revolutionize treatment for neurological conditions while avoiding the complexity of traditional psychedelic therapy.
In this episode of Power to the Patients, host Brandon Li speaks with Dr. Chris Witowski, CEO and Co-Founder of Psilera, to explore the emerging field of non-hallucinogenic psychedelic compounds and their potential applications in treating neurodegenerative conditions, particularly frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

What You'll Learn:- How non-hallucinogenic compounds could deliver the benefits of psychedelics without the challenges of traditional psychedelic therapy
- Why neurodegeneration presents a unique opportunity for psychedelic medicine...

In this episode of Power to the Patients, host Brandon Li speaks with Dr. Joseph Palumbo, Chief Medical Officer at BioVie Pharma, exploring the fascinating journey from academic research to pharmaceutical development, with a particular focus on neurodegenerative diseases and the crucial role of inflammation-focused treatments in brain health.
What You'll Learn:- How successful drug development bridges academic research, clinical practice, and commercial strategy
- The key differences between developing drugs in big pharma versus biotech environments
- Why inflammation is emerging as a critical factor in treating neurological conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
...

Clinical trial methodology and human relationships are the cornerstones of successful drug development, particularly in psychiatry and neuroscience research.

In this episode of Power to the Patients, host Brandon Li speaks with Dr. Steve Brannan, Chief Medical Officer of Karuna Therapeutics (recently acquired by Bristol Myers Squibb), about the art and science of running successful clinical trials, particularly in psychiatry, and the future of precision medicine in mental health.
What You'll Learn:- How to build trust-based relationships with research sites to ensure high-quality trial execution- Why the "right pace" principle in clinical trials matters more than...

In this episode of Power to the Patients, Brandon Li speaks with Dr. Anantha Shekhar, Senior Vice Chancellor for Health Sciences and Dean of the School of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Shekhar shares how his early experiences with a family member’s schizophrenia inspired a lifelong mission to bridge neuroscience, psychiatry, and translational research. They explore how psychiatry and neurology are rapidly converging, why the future of mental health treatment lies in understanding brain circuits and plasticity, and what AI, precision medicine, and synthetic biology might mean for the next generation of therapies. Dr. Shekhar also reflects on...

In this episode of Power to the Patients, Brandon Li speaks with Ram Mukunda, CEO of IGC, about groundbreaking approaches to Alzheimer’s care. Ram shares how his team is developing an ultra-low dose THC-based therapy to reduce agitation and neuroinflammation without sedation, and how AI models may transform early diagnosis for millions worldwide. Their conversation highlights both the science and the human urgency behind innovating for patients and caregivers facing Alzheimer’s.

What if we could treat severe depression in just five days — and give patients back the cognitive control to live their true lives? This week on Power to the Patients, we sit down with Brandon Bentzley, MD, PhD, co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer at Magnus Medical, to talk about the future of precision psychiatry and the breakthrough SAINT™ protocol.

What does great clinical operations really look like? In this episode, Sarah MacCallum and Melissa Gaines of Annovis Bio share their journeys into clinops and the lessons they’ve learned leading Alzheimer’s and neurology trials. From choosing the right site partners to keeping engagement high, to navigating the unique challenges of working with vulnerable populations, they break down what it takes to run trials that truly make an impact.

With over 25 years of experience building and investing in CNS companies, Daniel shares the story of why he placed a big bet on Acumen — from its origins as a seed-stage idea to today’s phase 2 clinical trial, Altitude AD. He explains the science behind targeting amyloid beta oligomers (rather than plaques), what makes Alzheimer’s research uniquely difficult, and why recent advances in biomarkers, trial design, and patient recruitment give him hope for meaningful progress.  

In this episode, Brandon sits down with Dr. Michael Gold, Chief R&D Officer at Compass Pathways, to explore the art and science of running high-quality clinical trials. With nearly 30 years of experience across pharma giants like J&J and GSK, as well as small biotechs, Mike shares a masterclass on clinical operations—why the best study design means nothing without flawless execution, and how quality must always come before speed or cost. 

In this episode, Brandon sits down with Dr. Michael Gold, Chief R&D Officer at Compass Pathways, to explore the art and science of running high-quality clinical trials. With nearly 30 years of experience across pharma giants like J&J and GSK, as well as small biotechs, Mike shares a masterclass on clinical operations—why the best study design means nothing without flawless execution, and how quality must always come before speed or cost. 

Brandon Li talks with Matt Leoni—former Senior VP of Global Clinical Development at Cerevel and now Chief Medical Officer at Merida Biosciences. Matt shares his journey from medical school to leading late-stage drug development in neuroscience. He discusses the unique challenges of neuro drug development, from the subjectivity of endpoints and high placebo response rates to the operational hurdles of large-scale trials. Matt offers candid insights into why promising drugs sometimes fail, the limitations of current measures, and where innovation is most needed. The conversation explores disease-modifying therapies, advances in Parkinson’s and schizophrenia research, the promise and pitf...

Brandon Li talks with Matt Leoni—former Senior VP of Global Clinical Development at Cerevel and now Chief Medical Officer at Merida Biosciences. Matt shares his journey from medical school to leading late-stage drug development in neuroscience. He discusses the unique challenges of neuro drug development, from the subjectivity of endpoints and high placebo response rates to the operational hurdles of large-scale trials. Matt offers candid insights into why promising drugs sometimes fail, the limitations of current measures, and where innovation is most needed. The conversation explores disease-modifying therapies, advances in Parkinson’s and schizophrenia research, the promise and pitf...

Brandon Li talks with Dr. Gerard Sanacora, Professor of Psychiatry at Yale, about his journey from molecular physiology to pioneering research on GABA, glutamate, and rapid-acting antidepressants. Gerard shares how a surprising finding in patients undergoing ECT redirected his research toward depression—and eventually to ketamine. Their conversation explores the science of neuroplasticity, the complexities behind ketamine’s mechanism of action, and how interventional psychiatry and digital tools may shape the future of mental health care.

Brandon Li talks with Dr. Gerard Sanacora, Professor of Psychiatry at Yale, about his journey from molecular physiology to pioneering research on GABA, glutamate, and rapid-acting antidepressants. Gerard shares how a surprising finding in patients undergoing ECT redirected his research toward depression—and eventually to ketamine. Their conversation explores the science of neuroplasticity, the complexities behind ketamine’s mechanism of action, and how interventional psychiatry and digital tools may shape the future of mental health care.

Dina Burkitbayeva, CEO of Freedom Biosciences, shares how she launched one of the first venture funds focused on mental health innovation. After co-founding PsyMed Ventures, she partnered with Dr. John Krystal to advance a more durable version of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression. She discusses the rise of interventional psychiatry, the limitations of current antidepressants, and the evolving clinical landscape for next-gen therapeutics. A powerful look at what it takes to bring meaningful change to mental health treatment.

Dina Burkitbayeva, CEO of Freedom Biosciences, shares how she launched one of the first venture funds focused on mental health innovation. After co-founding PsyMed Ventures, she partnered with Dr. John Krystal to advance a more durable version of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression. She discusses the rise of interventional psychiatry, the limitations of current antidepressants, and the evolving clinical landscape for next-gen therapeutics. A powerful look at what it takes to bring meaningful change to mental health treatment.

Brandon Li talks with Joel Raskin, Chief Medical Officer at Arrivo, about his journey from training in psychiatry in Toronto to leading pharmaceutical research in his current role. Joel shares details on SP-624, an Arrivo compound showing promise in treating depression through epigenetic mechanisms. Their deep dive covers the challenges of clinical trials, and the potential for precision psychiatry to revolutionize psychiatry and neuroscience.

Brandon Li talks with Joel Raskin, Chief Medical Officer at Arrivo, about his journey from training in psychiatry in Toronto to leading pharmaceutical research in his current role. Joel shares details on SP-624, an Arrivo compound showing promise in treating depression through epigenetic mechanisms. Their deep dive covers the challenges of clinical trials, and the potential for precision psychiatry to revolutionize psychiatry and neuroscience.

In this episode, Dr. Jerry Rosenbaum and Dr. Sharmin Ghaznavi offer a rare look into academia’s role in the psychedelic renaissance, tracing the origins of Mass General’s Center for the Neuroscience of Psychedelics. They discuss how their shared interest in rumination—and its role in treatment-resistant mental illness—led them to explore psilocybin’s effects on brain connectivity. The conversation spans everything from neuroplasticity and default mode networks to the challenges of securing funding, the limits of industry-driven research, and what’s next in training the next generation of psychiatrists. It’s an honest, far-reaching discussion about where the scie...

In this episode, Dr. Jerry Rosenbaum and Dr. Sharmin Ghaznavi offer a rare look into academia’s role in the psychedelic renaissance, tracing the origins of Mass General’s Center for the Neuroscience of Psychedelics. They discuss how their shared interest in rumination—and its role in treatment-resistant mental illness—led them to explore psilocybin’s effects on brain connectivity. The conversation spans everything from neuroplasticity and default mode networks to the challenges of securing funding, the limits of industry-driven research, and what’s next in training the next generation of psychiatrists. It’s an honest, far-reaching discussion about where the scie...

Spyros Papapetropoulos, a leading neurologist and neuroscientist, joins Power CEO, Brandon Li, to discuss his remarkable career and the transformative work at Neuphoria. Spyros delves into his transition from practicing neurologist to drug development and his decision to focus on neuropsychiatric diseases. They explore Neuphoria's innovative approach to treating social anxiety disorder with their lead program, BNC210, which has shown promising results in reducing anxiety without the side effects of current treatments. Spyros and Brandon discuss unmet needs in psychiatric treatments, the operational challenges in clinical trials, and the evolving landscape of neuroscience - including the exciting advancements in...

Spyros Papapetropoulos, a leading neurologist and neuroscientist, joins Power CEO, Brandon Li, to discuss his remarkable career and the transformative work at Neuphoria. Spyros delves into his transition from practicing neurologist to drug development and his decision to focus on neuropsychiatric diseases. They explore Neuphoria's innovative approach to treating social anxiety disorder with their lead program, BNC210, which has shown promising results in reducing anxiety without the side effects of current treatments. Spyros and Brandon discuss unmet needs in psychiatric treatments, the operational challenges in clinical trials, and the evolving landscape of neuroscience - including the exciting advancements in...

Steve Gourlay joins Power CEO, Brandon Li, to discuss Actinogen's innovative approach to Alzheimer's treatment. Steven shares his background in clinical trials and drug development, highlighting the potential of the company's lead molecule, Xanamem, a daily pill aimed at reducing brain cortisol levels. Their conversation covers the challenges in Alzheimer's & depression research and the promising early clinical data. Steven sheds insight on the strategic focus on Alzheimer's over depression due to unmet medical needs and the future direction in Alzheimer's research. Brandon and Steven also dive into the regulatory landscape, patient selection criteria, and the broader implications of Actinogen's...

Steve Gourlay joins Power CEO, Brandon Li, to discuss Actinogen's innovative approach to Alzheimer's treatment. Steven shares his background in clinical trials and drug development, highlighting the potential of the company's lead molecule, Xanamem, a daily pill aimed at reducing brain cortisol levels. Their conversation covers the challenges in Alzheimer's & depression research and the promising early clinical data. Steven sheds insight on the strategic focus on Alzheimer's over depression due to unmet medical needs and the future direction in Alzheimer's research. Brandon and Steven also dive into the regulatory landscape, patient selection criteria, and the broader implications of Actinogen's...

In this episode of Power to the Patients, Boehringer Ingelheim leaders Christine Sakdalan and Mike Jablonski from discuss how precision psychiatry—using tools like biomarkers and neuroimaging—can personalize treatment for conditions like schizophrenia and depression. They highlight the importance of holistic care, digital therapeutics, and industry collaboration to address unmet needs and improve outcomes in mental health. 

In this episode of Power to the Patients, Boehringer Ingelheim leaders Christine Sakdalan and Mike Jablonski from discuss how precision psychiatry—using tools like biomarkers and neuroimaging—can personalize treatment for conditions like schizophrenia and depression. They highlight the importance of holistic care, digital therapeutics, and industry collaboration to address unmet needs and improve outcomes in mental health. 

John Krystal, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Yale, joins Brandon Li to discuss his groundbreaking work on ketamine's antidepressant effects and the evolving landscape of psychiatric treatments. Dr. Krystal was at the forefront of the discovery of ketamine's rapid antidepressant properties in the 1990s. Dr. Krystal shares insights from his career - his pioneering work on the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine, exploring its journey from a misunderstood drug to a revolutionary treatment backed by rigorous research, its development into a treatment by Johnson & Johnson, and its dramatic impact on patients. The conversation also explores the future...

John Krystal, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Yale, joins Brandon Li to discuss his groundbreaking work on ketamine's antidepressant effects and the evolving landscape of psychiatric treatments. Dr. Krystal was at the forefront of the discovery of ketamine's rapid antidepressant properties in the 1990s. Dr. Krystal shares insights from his career - his pioneering work on the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine, exploring its journey from a misunderstood drug to a revolutionary treatment backed by rigorous research, its development into a treatment by Johnson & Johnson, and its dramatic impact on patients. The conversation also explores the future...

In this episode, Brandon sits down with Shawn Singh, CEO of Vistagen, to discuss a first-of-its-kind approach to treating mental health conditions. Vistagen is developing pherines, a new class of nasal spray treatments that work through nose-to-brain neural pathways, with the potential to provide fast-acting relief for conditions like social anxiety disorder and depression—without systemic exposure, weight gain, or addiction risk.

Key Takeaways:

In this episode, Brandon sits down with Shawn Singh, CEO of Vistagen, to discuss a first-of-its-kind approach to treating mental health conditions. Vistagen is developing pherines, a new class of nasal spray treatments that work through nose-to-brain neural pathways, with the potential to provide fast-acting relief for conditions like social anxiety disorder and depression—without systemic exposure, weight gain, or addiction risk.

Key Takeaways:

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Dr. Jordan Smoller - Jerrold F. Rosenbaum Chair in Psychiatry at Mass General, Co-Director for the Center for Suicide Research and Prevention at MGH and Harvard, Director of the Center for Precision Psychiatry, and a professor at Harvard Medical School, to explore the future of psychiatry. They discuss how AI, big data, and genomics are transforming mental health care—bringing us closer to precision psychiatry that moves beyond trial-and-error treatment.

Dr. Smoller shares his journey from early psychiatric research to leading one of the foremost centers in precision psychiatry, tackli...

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Dr. Jordan Smoller - Jerrold F. Rosenbaum Chair in Psychiatry at Mass General, Co-Director for the Center for Suicide Research and Prevention at MGH and Harvard, Director of the Center for Precision Psychiatry, and a professor at Harvard Medical School, to explore the future of psychiatry. They discuss how AI, big data, and genomics are transforming mental health care—bringing us closer to precision psychiatry that moves beyond trial-and-error treatment.

Dr. Smoller shares his journey from early psychiatric research to leading one of the foremost centers in precision psychiatry, tackli...

How do we move from a system that treats disease to a system that cares for individuals? Dr. Anthony Yanni, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Patient Centricity at Astellas Pharma Inc, has spent his career shaping patient-centricity—and in this episode, he shares a framework for embedding it into drug development, clinical trials, and healthcare delivery.

We cover:
- Building a patient-focused culture—why real patient centricity is an active process, not a slogan
- Bridging the gap between research and real-world care—ensuring patient input guides drug development from the start
- Ment...

How do we move from a system that treats disease to a system that cares for individuals? Dr. Anthony Yanni, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Patient Centricity at Astellas Pharma Inc, has spent his career shaping patient-centricity—and in this episode, he shares a framework for embedding it into drug development, clinical trials, and healthcare delivery.

We cover:
- Building a patient-focused culture—why real patient centricity is an active process, not a slogan
- Bridging the gap between research and real-world care—ensuring patient input guides drug development from the start
- Ment...

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Raymond Sanchez, former CMO of Cerevel, now at Bain Capital Life Sciences, to discuss the neuroscience renaissance—the explosion of new treatments, novel mechanisms, and scientific breakthroughs reshaping the future of neuropsychiatric research.

Ray shares his career journey, from early psychiatry research at Yale to scaling Cerevel from 3 to 350 employees and guiding it to a $8.7B acquisition by AbbVie.

Key topics include:
- The neuroscience renaissance: What’s driving renewed investment and innovation in brain research.

- Research in schizophrenia: How muscarinic drugs like KarX...

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Raymond Sanchez, former CMO of Cerevel, now at Bain Capital Life Sciences, to discuss the neuroscience renaissance—the explosion of new treatments, novel mechanisms, and scientific breakthroughs reshaping the future of neuropsychiatric research.

Ray shares his career journey, from early psychiatry research at Yale to scaling Cerevel from 3 to 350 employees and guiding it to a $8.7B acquisition by AbbVie.

Key topics include:
- The neuroscience renaissance: What’s driving renewed investment and innovation in brain research.

- Research in schizophrenia: How muscarinic drugs like KarX...

On this episode of Power to the Patients, we are joined by Amit Etkin, Founder & CEO of Alto Neuroscience and adjunct professor at Stanford, to explore how precision psychiatry is paving the way for more tailored approaches to mental health care. Amit discusses his journey from academia to founding Alto, the role of biomarkers in advancing treatment, and Alto's work on precision psychiatric medicines for MDD.

Key Takeaways:

- Precision Psychiatry in Practice: Amit shares how precision psychiatry applies biological insights, such as EEG biomarkers, to better understand and treat mental health conditions. While still em...

On this episode of Power to the Patients, we are joined by Amit Etkin, Founder & CEO of Alto Neuroscience and adjunct professor at Stanford, to explore how precision psychiatry is paving the way for more tailored approaches to mental health care. Amit discusses his journey from academia to founding Alto, the role of biomarkers in advancing treatment, and Alto's work on precision psychiatric medicines for MDD.

Key Takeaways:

- Precision Psychiatry in Practice: Amit shares how precision psychiatry applies biological insights, such as EEG biomarkers, to better understand and treat mental health conditions. While still em...

In this episode, Brandon Li speaks with Kabir Nath, CEO of Compass Pathways, about their groundbreaking work in using psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Kabir shares his personal connection to mental health, the journey of Compass Pathways, and their rigorous approach to clinical trials. The discussion also delves into the broader potential of psychedelics, regulatory challenges, and the importance of patient-centric innovation.

Key takeaways:
- Psilocybin for TRD: Compass Pathways focuses on treatment-resistant depression, addressing a critical unmet need for patients who have not responded to traditional therapies.
- Pioneering Clinical Trials: Their phase 3 trials...

In this episode, Brandon Li speaks with Kabir Nath, CEO of Compass Pathways, about their groundbreaking work in using psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Kabir shares his personal connection to mental health, the journey of Compass Pathways, and their rigorous approach to clinical trials. The discussion also delves into the broader potential of psychedelics, regulatory challenges, and the importance of patient-centric innovation.

Key takeaways:
- Psilocybin for TRD: Compass Pathways focuses on treatment-resistant depression, addressing a critical unmet need for patients who have not responded to traditional therapies.
- Pioneering Clinical Trials: Their phase 3 trials...

In this episode of Power to the Patients, Srinivas Pai sits down with Katie Baca-Motes, Co-Founder at Scripps Research Digital Trial Center, to discuss how clinical research can learn from consumer industries to create better patient experiences. They explore advancements in digital clinical trials, behavioral science, patient-centric design, and the importance of diversity and equity in research. Katie also shares her unique insights from her time at Disney and her vision for transforming clinical research into a more inclusive and engaging space.   Key Takeaways: Patient-Centric Design: Clinical research often prioritizes researcher convenience over patient experience. Katie advocates designing trials with pa...

In this episode of Power to the Patients, Srinivas Pai sits down with Katie Baca-Motes, Co-Founder at Scripps Research Digital Trial Center, to discuss how clinical research can learn from consumer industries to create better patient experiences. They explore advancements in digital clinical trials, behavioral science, patient-centric design, and the importance of diversity and equity in research. Katie also shares her unique insights from her time at Disney and her vision for transforming clinical research into a more inclusive and engaging space.   Key Takeaways: Patient-Centric Design: Clinical research often prioritizes researcher convenience over patient experience. Katie advocates designing trials with pa...

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Manish Agrawal, Co-Founder and CEO of Sunstone Therapies, to discuss the transformative role of psychedelics in cancer care and mental health. 

Manish shares his journey from oncology to leading groundbreaking research in psychedelic-assisted therapy, emphasizing its profound potential to address emotional and psychological needs that traditional medicine often overlooks.

Key topics include:

- Manish’s career pivot: Why seeing unmet emotional needs in oncology patients inspired Manish to transition into psychedelic research.

- Complexity of psychedelic therapy: How combining psychedelics with psychological support cre...

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Manish Agrawal, Co-Founder and CEO of Sunstone Therapies, to discuss the transformative role of psychedelics in cancer care and mental health. 

Manish shares his journey from oncology to leading groundbreaking research in psychedelic-assisted therapy, emphasizing its profound potential to address emotional and psychological needs that traditional medicine often overlooks.

Key topics include:

- Manish’s career pivot: Why seeing unmet emotional needs in oncology patients inspired Manish to transition into psychedelic research.

- Complexity of psychedelic therapy: How combining psychedelics with psychological support cre...

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Srinivas Rao, Co-CEO of atai Life Sciences, for a deep dive into the pragmatic strategies shaping the future of psychedelic therapies. Srini shares how his background in engineering and neuropharmacology has informed a streamlined, patient-centric approach to drug development.

Key topics include:

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Srinivas Rao, Co-CEO of atai Life Sciences, for a deep dive into the pragmatic strategies shaping the future of psychedelic therapies. Srini shares how his background in engineering and neuropharmacology has informed a streamlined, patient-centric approach to drug development.

Key topics include:

In this episode, Jessica Branning, President of JBran Consulting and former CEO of ClinCloud, shares her  work in creating accessible and patient-focused clinical research sites in the neuropsych space. Jessica’s journey takes us from her early days as a clinical research coordinator to founding ClinCloud, a fully remote-capable site specializing in Alzheimer’s and dementia trials.

Tune in as we dive into:

In this episode, Jessica Branning, President of JBran Consulting and former CEO of ClinCloud, shares her  work in creating accessible and patient-focused clinical research sites in the neuropsych space. Jessica’s journey takes us from her early days as a clinical research coordinator to founding ClinCloud, a fully remote-capable site specializing in Alzheimer’s and dementia trials.

Tune in as we dive into:

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Cosmo Feilding-Mellen, CEO of Beckley Psytech, to explore the groundbreaking work Beckley is doing in the world of psychedelics. Cosmo shares his journey growing up in a family immersed in psychedelic research, co-founding Beckley Psytech, and pushing the boundaries of mental health treatment with next-generation compounds like 5-MeO-DMT.

Tune in to discover why Beckley Psytech is focusing on shorter, scalable psychedelic treatments for conditions like treatment-resistant depression and substance use disorders. Cosmo explains how their innovative approach aims to make these therapies more accessible while maintaining high ethical standards...

In this episode, Brandon Li sits down with Cosmo Feilding-Mellen, CEO of Beckley Psytech, to explore the groundbreaking work Beckley is doing in the world of psychedelics. Cosmo shares his journey growing up in a family immersed in psychedelic research, co-founding Beckley Psytech, and pushing the boundaries of mental health treatment with next-generation compounds like 5-MeO-DMT.

Tune in to discover why Beckley Psytech is focusing on shorter, scalable psychedelic treatments for conditions like treatment-resistant depression and substance use disorders. Cosmo explains how their innovative approach aims to make these therapies more accessible while maintaining high ethical standards...

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Winton, Founder and Chairman of Rural Minds, a nonprofit dedicated to advocating for mental health services in rural America. Jeff shares his deeply personal story of how a family tragedy inspired the creation of Rural Minds and sheds light on the mental health crisis in rural communities, where stigma and lack of access to care create unique challenges. He talks about his career in the biopharmaceutical industry and how it shaped his approach to advocacy. From the isolation of rural life to the growing pressure on fragile healthcare infrastructures, Jeff emphasizes...

In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Winton, Founder and Chairman of Rural Minds, a nonprofit dedicated to advocating for mental health services in rural America. Jeff shares his deeply personal story of how a family tragedy inspired the creation of Rural Minds and sheds light on the mental health crisis in rural communities, where stigma and lack of access to care create unique challenges. He talks about his career in the biopharmaceutical industry and how it shaped his approach to advocacy. From the isolation of rural life to the growing pressure on fragile healthcare infrastructures, Jeff emphasizes...

In this episode, we sit down with Doug Drysdale, CEO of Cybin, to discuss the growing interest in psilocybin as a potential treatment for depression and other mental health conditions. Doug talks candidly about his initial skepticism and how the data convinced him to dive into the world of psychedelic medicine. With decades of experience in drug development, Doug shares why he believes psilocybin represents a new approach to mental health care—one that could provide alternatives to traditional treatments like SSRIs.

We explore Cybin's ongoing research, the results from their recent phase two studies, and what’s ne...

In this episode, we sit down with Doug Drysdale, CEO of Cybin, to discuss the growing interest in psilocybin as a potential treatment for depression and other mental health conditions. Doug talks candidly about his initial skepticism and how the data convinced him to dive into the world of psychedelic medicine. With decades of experience in drug development, Doug shares why he believes psilocybin represents a new approach to mental health care—one that could provide alternatives to traditional treatments like SSRIs.

We explore Cybin's ongoing research, the results from their recent phase two studies, and what’s ne...

In this episode, Dr. Dan Karlin, Chief Medical Officer at MindMed, talks about the potential of psychedelic therapies, especially LSD, to help treat anxiety. He shares his personal journey through psychiatry and addiction medicine, discussing the limitations of traditional treatments and the hope that psychedelics might bring. We dive into MindMed’s research on how LSD could impact generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), with Dr. Karlin explaining how it works and the importance of therapy alongside these treatments. This insightful conversation explores how MindMed is leading the way in developing new solutions for mental health, which could change the way we...

In this episode, Dr. Dan Karlin, Chief Medical Officer at MindMed, talks about the potential of psychedelic therapies, especially LSD, to help treat anxiety. He shares his personal journey through psychiatry and addiction medicine, discussing the limitations of traditional treatments and the hope that psychedelics might bring. We dive into MindMed’s research on how LSD could impact generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), with Dr. Karlin explaining how it works and the importance of therapy alongside these treatments. This insightful conversation explores how MindMed is leading the way in developing new solutions for mental health, which could change the way we...

Today, we sit down with Robin and Dave Dubin from the AliveAndKickn Foundation, who share their inspiring journey with Lynch Syndrome. Robin explains the genetic intricacies of this hereditary cancer predisposition, emphasizing the crucial role of genetic counseling and the proactive measures taken for their children as previvors.  

Dave, a three-time cancer survivor, offers an account of his experiences, shedding light on the motivations behind the foundation's establishment and the significance of patient advocacy. Together, they reveal how personal battles can transform into movements that champion patient-centric approaches in the healthcare landscape. 

Topics Dis...

Today, we sit down with Robin and Dave Dubin from the AliveAndKickn Foundation, who share their inspiring journey with Lynch Syndrome. Robin explains the genetic intricacies of this hereditary cancer predisposition, emphasizing the crucial role of genetic counseling and the proactive measures taken for their children as previvors.  

Dave, a three-time cancer survivor, offers an account of his experiences, shedding light on the motivations behind the foundation's establishment and the significance of patient advocacy. Together, they reveal how personal battles can transform into movements that champion patient-centric approaches in the healthcare landscape. 

Topics Dis...

In today's episode, Sasha Sinclair discusses the current challenges and emerging solutions shaping the future of patient recruitment and engagement in clinical trials. Sasha has a comprehensive background in clinical operations that allows her to share an informed perspective about how digital strategies and improved education can transform the landscape of clinical research, making it more accessible and inclusive for patients everywhere. She talks about the problem of patients not having access to trials and how to approach it, the new patient recruitment strategies she's excited about, and how the patient's journey affects the decisions made along the way.  Duration: 00:28:30

In today's episode, Sasha Sinclair discusses the current challenges and emerging solutions shaping the future of patient recruitment and engagement in clinical trials. Sasha has a comprehensive background in clinical operations that allows her to share an informed perspective about how digital strategies and improved education can transform the landscape of clinical research, making it more accessible and inclusive for patients everywhere. She talks about the problem of patients not having access to trials and how to approach it, the new patient recruitment strategies she's excited about, and how the patient's journey affects the decisions made along the way.  Duration: 00:28:30

How much do you know about the behind-the-scenes process of clinical trials? Our guest today, Farah Meghji, has a unique perspective on the matter through her role at Roche Canada, where patient experience sits at the heart of every stage of solution development. We're thrilled to share her insights on balancing the urgency in clinical trial development with the necessity of embedding patient experiences from the start, transforming the way we think about patient-inclusive culture. Farah also elaborates on how Roche Canada is revolutionizing patient education materials to be more accessible and user-friendly.

Topics Discussed:

How much do you know about the behind-the-scenes process of clinical trials? Our guest today, Farah Meghji, has a unique perspective on the matter through her role at Roche Canada, where patient experience sits at the heart of every stage of solution development. We're thrilled to share her insights on balancing the urgency in clinical trial development with the necessity of embedding patient experiences from the start, transforming the way we think about patient-inclusive culture. Farah also elaborates on how Roche Canada is revolutionizing patient education materials to be more accessible and user-friendly.

Topics Discussed:

Explore the world of clinical trials with our guest, Megan Liles. Drawing from her 25+ years of experience, Megan offers a practical perspective on the importance of prioritizing patients in clinical trials. She discusses the role of patient advisory boards, improving access to clinical trials, and understanding the real-life impact on patients. Megan emphasizes the significance of incorporating patient-centric approaches into clinical trial design.

Topics Discussed:

Explore the world of clinical trials with our guest, Megan Liles. Drawing from her 25+ years of experience, Megan offers a practical perspective on the importance of prioritizing patients in clinical trials. She discusses the role of patient advisory boards, improving access to clinical trials, and understanding the real-life impact on patients. Megan emphasizes the significance of incorporating patient-centric approaches into clinical trial design.

Topics Discussed:

Today’s episode features Victoria DiBiaso from Sanofi. Victoria provides a detailed analysis of patient-informed development and the critical importance of diversity and inclusion in clinical trials. With her unique perspective stemming from her nursing background, she explains the significance of patient-centric trials and the future of healthcare. 

Throughout the episode, Victoria elaborates on effective communication with patient communities, the significance of trust-building, and how understanding social determinants of health can aid in forging strong relationships with patient advisors. The episode further explores the world of drug development, from considering patient-relevant endpoints to health scales and label opp...

Today’s episode features Victoria DiBiaso from Sanofi. Victoria provides a detailed analysis of patient-informed development and the critical importance of diversity and inclusion in clinical trials. With her unique perspective stemming from her nursing background, she explains the significance of patient-centric trials and the future of healthcare. 

Throughout the episode, Victoria elaborates on effective communication with patient communities, the significance of trust-building, and how understanding social determinants of health can aid in forging strong relationships with patient advisors. The episode further explores the world of drug development, from considering patient-relevant endpoints to health scales and label opp...

In this episode we delve into the topic of patient centricity in clinical trials with Dr. Anthony Yanni, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Patient-Centricity at Astellas Pharma Inc. Dr. Yanni shares what patient-centricity means for him and how it is integrated both operationally and culturally at Astellas.

We explore how specialized teams work collaboratively to transform patient information into practical solutions, and the conscious patient-awareness that is a fundamental part of every role at Astellas. You'll also discover some innovative programs that bring patient-centricity to life.

Topics Discussed:

In this episode we delve into the topic of patient centricity in clinical trials with Dr. Anthony Yanni, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Patient-Centricity at Astellas Pharma Inc. Dr. Yanni shares what patient-centricity means for him and how it is integrated both operationally and culturally at Astellas.

We explore how specialized teams work collaboratively to transform patient information into practical solutions, and the conscious patient-awareness that is a fundamental part of every role at Astellas. You'll also discover some innovative programs that bring patient-centricity to life.

Topics Discussed:

Today’s guest is Bryan Wylie, Global and Scientific Director of Clinical Affairs, Operations, and Field. He joins today’s episode to share his thoughts about the significance of patients in the process of clinical trials and how harnessing technology can enhance the overall success of clinical trials. 

This episode explores the intersection of patient-centricity, technology, and efficiency. Bryan provides valuable insights on the importance of putting patients at the heart of clinical studies and how technology is transforming the way these trials are conducted. Bryan also discusses the role of sponsors, effective pre-planning, and team collaboration in im...

Today’s guest is Bryan Wylie, Global and Scientific Director of Clinical Affairs, Operations, and Field. He joins today’s episode to share his thoughts about the significance of patients in the process of clinical trials and how harnessing technology can enhance the overall success of clinical trials. 

This episode explores the intersection of patient-centricity, technology, and efficiency. Bryan provides valuable insights on the importance of putting patients at the heart of clinical studies and how technology is transforming the way these trials are conducted. Bryan also discusses the role of sponsors, effective pre-planning, and team collaboration in im...

As the dedicated Foundation Manager for the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation (PRRF), Stephanie Saville offers a unique and enlightening perspective into the specialized area of pediatric retinal research. The PRRF is a volunteer-driven organization that focuses on rare pediatric retinal diseases, offering support for children and adults who experience vision loss.Throughout our conversation, Stephanie emphasized the challenges rare diseases face and explored the complexities of rare disease research.

Stephanie believes in the importance of understanding the 'why' behind the diagnosis, and the power of patient stories in driving change. Stephanie offers insights on how organizations can...

As the dedicated Foundation Manager for the Pediatric Retinal Research Foundation (PRRF), Stephanie Saville offers a unique and enlightening perspective into the specialized area of pediatric retinal research. The PRRF is a volunteer-driven organization that focuses on rare pediatric retinal diseases, offering support for children and adults who experience vision loss.Throughout our conversation, Stephanie emphasized the challenges rare diseases face and explored the complexities of rare disease research.

Stephanie believes in the importance of understanding the 'why' behind the diagnosis, and the power of patient stories in driving change. Stephanie offers insights on how organizations can...

In today’s healthcare landscape, the term ‘patient-centric’ has been showing up more and more. It emphasizes the importance of considering the patient’s needs, experiences, and preferences. In the realm of oncology clinical trials, patient-centricity plays a pivotal role. But achieving it isn't easy. 

In this episode, our guest Deb Kientop, a pharmaceutical professional with 27+ years of experience, including research, clinical, medical affairs, strategy and management, explores the complex world of patient-centric oncology clinical trials. Deb shares her personal experiences, and provides a unique perspective on the intricacies involved in achieving patient-centricity in these trials. Tune in to exp...

In today’s healthcare landscape, the term ‘patient-centric’ has been showing up more and more. It emphasizes the importance of considering the patient’s needs, experiences, and preferences. In the realm of oncology clinical trials, patient-centricity plays a pivotal role. But achieving it isn't easy. 

In this episode, our guest Deb Kientop, a pharmaceutical professional with 27+ years of experience, including research, clinical, medical affairs, strategy and management, explores the complex world of patient-centric oncology clinical trials. Deb shares her personal experiences, and provides a unique perspective on the intricacies involved in achieving patient-centricity in these trials. Tune in to exp...

In this episode, Scott Schliebner, a life sciences and digital health executive with experience across the biopharma, CRO, medtech, and non-profit sectors, discusses the evolution of patient-centricity. With over 30 years of experience, Scott provides insights into patient-centered design in clinical research. 

The discussion also covers the necessity of using more humanizing terms for patients, the crucial balance in patient recruitment, the role of patient advocacy, and the future of the industry.

Topics Discussed:

In this episode, Scott Schliebner, a life sciences and digital health executive with experience across the biopharma, CRO, medtech, and non-profit sectors, discusses the evolution of patient-centricity. With over 30 years of experience, Scott provides insights into patient-centered design in clinical research. 

The discussion also covers the necessity of using more humanizing terms for patients, the crucial balance in patient recruitment, the role of patient advocacy, and the future of the industry.

Topics Discussed: