S2 Ep 6 | Good Science Will Find Funding: Scott McCarty Discusses Venture Lending, Exits, And Building Talent In Life Sciences

S2 Ep 7 | Beyond the Diagnosis: Dorothy Leone-Glasser Discusses Empowering Patients and Changing Healthcare Policy in Georgia

WELCOME TO VITALS, THE PULSE OF GEORGIA LIFE SCIENCES At the core of every illness is an individual. Obvious, yes, but often the individual's voice is not heard, not empowered, not embraced.  In this very robust and thought provoking episode of VITALS, Maria Thacker Goethe, the CEO of Georgia Life Sciences, interviews Dorothy Leone- Glasser, a registered nurse specialist in rheumatology and immunology, who shared her journey with systemic lupus, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility and lifestyle changes. She highlighted the need for patient engagement and advocacy, particularly in clinical trials and healthcare policy. Leone-Glasser discussed her organization, Advocates for Responsible Care (ARxC), which focuses on issues like pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), cancer early detection, and the 340B program. She stressed the importance of collaboration between patients, industry, and policymakers to improve healthcare outcomes and called for increased patient and caregiver involvement in advocacy efforts. Dorothy Leone-Glasser's Patient Journey and Early Career * Dorothy shares her patient story, detailing her critical illness at 19, including symptoms of arthritis, stroke, heart attack, and coma. * It took five years to diagnose her with systemic lupus, which included right-sided kidney failure. * Despite her illness, Dorothy emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in managing her health and lifestyle changes. Challenges and Advocacy in Healthcare * Dorothy discusses the challenges she faced in her medical training and the lack of disability rights during her time. * She transitioned into psychoneuroimmunology and wellness counseling to help other patients, focusing on personal empowerment. * Dorothy became an advocate, insisting on being part of her treatment plan and actively engaging in her wellness. * She highlights the importance of community and support systems for patients, sharing her experiences with the Arthritis Foundation and other rare disease communities. Impact of Healthcare System on Patients * Dorothy reflects on the changes in the healthcare system since her early days, noting the increased politics, profiteering, and corruption. * She emphasizes the need for a holistic view of the patient, beyond just the medical condition. * Dorothy's philosophy is that illness lives in the mind and plays out in the body, but it finds peace in the spirit. * She shares her work in thanatology and the importance of living a meaningful life and dying in peace. Community and Patient Advocacy * Dorothy stresses the importance of finding a community and engaging with other patients to strengthen each other. * She discusses the role of patient advocacy in healthcare, emphasizing the need for patients to have a voice and be part of the treatment plan. * Maria and Dorothy discuss the challenges of isolation for patients and the importance of community support. * Dorothy highlights the need for collaboration between patients, industry, and policymakers to improve healthcare outcomes. Advocates for Responsible Care (ARxC) and Its Mission * Dorothy explains the formation of ARxC and its mission to advocate for responsible care, particularly for patients in crisis situations. * She shares an example of ARxC's work with Grady Hospital's outpatient dialysis clinic and the challenges faced by patients. * ARxC's focus is on empowering patients and advocating for their rights, often representing patients who fall through the cracks of the healthcare system. * Dorothy emphasizes the importance of empathy and accountability in healthcare, particularly for underserved communities. Legislative Priorities and Challenges * Dorothy outlines ARxC's legislative priorities for the upcoming session, including pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), cancer early detection, and the 340B program. * She discusses the challenges of getting legislation passed due to the focus on campaigning during election years. * Dorothy emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in healthcare, particularly in programs like the 340B Drug Pricing Program. * She highlights the need for federal legislation to be consistent across states and the importance of state-level advocacy. Collaboration and Engagement with Industry * Dorothy and Maria discuss the importance of collaboration between patients, industry, and policymakers to improve healthcare outcomes. * They emphasize the need for industry to engage with patient advocates and understand the patient perspective. * Dorothy shares her experiences with ARxC's coalition with organizations such as Reach Georgia, and the importance of having a unified voice. * They discuss the challenges of getting industry to support patient advocacy and the need for more investment in patient care. Patient Advocacy and Legislative Engagement * Dorothy and Maria discuss the importance of patient advocacy and legislative engagement for improving healthcare. * They highlight the need for patients to be more engaged in their care and to advocate for their rights. * Dorothy shares tips for patients to get involved, including writing emails, calling legislators, and attending events. * They emphasize the importance of building relationships with legislators and being a consistent voice in the advocacy process. Hope and Future of Healthcare Advocacy * Dorothy expresses hope for the next generation of medical professionals and their commitment to wellness and patient care. * She emphasizes the importance of preventative medicine and early intervention in healthcare. * Dorothy highlights the role of patient advocates in shaping the future of healthcare and the need for more engagement from caregivers. * They discuss the importance of collaboration and community in achieving better healthcare outcomes for all. About Georgia Life Sciences As the leading advocate for the state’s dynamic and diverse life sciences sector, Georgia Life Sciences’ mission is to advance the growth of Georgia’s life sciences industry through partnerships and initiatives that accelerate innovation, investment, and job creation. To accomplish this mission, Georgia Life Sciences conducts economic development activities; advocates on behalf of its members on public policy matters; educates the public about the benefits of life sciences research and product development; and provides a network for idea exchange and cooperation. For more information on the impactful work, to join as a member, or provide support to the mission, please visit Georgia Life Sciences at https://www.galifesciences.org/ [https://www.galifesciences.org/] About Cloudcast Media As the national leader in local podcasting to create a "listen where you live" mindset, Cloudcast Atlanta, a division of Cloudcast Media, proudly produces "VITALS: The Pulse of Georgia Life Sciences" through its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media. [https://cloudcastmedia.us/] This episode was produced by Senior Associate Producer Brandon Joe. The episode was recorded, engineered, mixed and mastered by Sky Guides Atlanta, the podcast program and studio affiliated with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) in Atlanta, Georgia.

S2 Ep 6 | Good Science Will Find Funding: Scott McCarty Discusses Venture Lending, Exits, And Building Talent In Life Sciences

WELCOME TO VITALS, THE PULSE OF GEORGIA LIFE SCIENCES In this incredible, timely, and informative episode of VITALS, Maria Thacker Goethe, the CEO of Georgia Life Sciences, interviews Scott McCarty, Managing Director of Sales, Origination, Healthcare and Life Sciences at Silicon Valley Bank, who discusses venture debt strategy, cautious optimism in today’s market cycle, robust biotech exits, and how executives can scale healthcare innovation, medtech, and health tech companies across Georgia and the broader Southeast ecosystem. Scott McCarty's Career Journey * Maria Thacker Goethe asks Scott McCarty about his career journey, starting with his background in finance at UGA and his initial aversion to commercial banking. * Scott shares his experience of joining Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) through a friend, finding it more entrepreneurial and less stodgy than traditional banks. * Scott describes the growth of SVB, from a regional bank to a significant player with $230 billion in total assets before merging with First Citizens. * Scott emphasizes SVB's continued focus on venture debt and healthcare innovation, despite the bank's expansion and changes. SVB's Role in Venture Lending and Healthcare Innovation * Maria inquires about SVB's current structure and its role in venture lending and healthcare innovation. * Scott explains that SVB is still a major player in venture lending, particularly in the healthcare innovation space. * Scott discusses the evolution of SVB's healthcare and life sciences business, which has become a significant growth engine for the bank. * Scott notes the increased competition in the market, with many former SVB colleagues starting new ventures, but maintains that SVB remains a friendly competitor. Scott McCarty's Current Role and Responsibilities * Maria asks about Scott McCarty's current role and responsibilities. * Scott describes his initial role in starting a team in the mid-Atlantic and southeast, covering from Philadelphia to Miami. * Scott explains the evolution of his role into a national sales role, working with all eight of SVB's teams and focusing on growth-stage companies. * Scott highlights the shift in Series A funding, with larger Series A rounds now common in the biotech space. Georgia's Life Sciences Ecosystem and Personal Background * Maria asks about Scott's personal background and his time in Georgia. * Scott shares his history of moving frequently due to his father's job at IBM, eventually settling in Georgia. * Scott mentions his high school experience at Chattahoochee High School, part of the first graduating class. * Maria and Scott discuss the evolution of company building over the past 20 years, noting the shift towards more virtual companies and the challenges of retaining local talent. Market Outlook for 2026 and JPM Healthcare Week * Maria asks about the market outlook for 2026 and the impact of the upcoming JPM Healthcare Week. * Scott expresses cautious optimism, noting the low fundraising environment of the past few years and the need for high-end announcements at JPM. * Scott discusses the importance of maintaining a robust exit environment to keep the market healthy. * Scott highlights the role of AI in healthcare innovation, particularly in drug discovery and data analysis, and its potential to drive investment. Challenges for Early-Stage Companies and Strategic Advice * Maria asks for advice for early-stage companies struggling to raise capital. * Scott emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with good advisors and having a strong story to tell. * Scott advises early-stage entrepreneurs to be receptive to feedback and to leverage conferences and networking opportunities. * Scott discusses the role of family offices and private high net worth offices in funding early-stage companies and the challenges of accessing these funds. Investment and Exit Themes for the Next 12-24 Months * Maria inquires about major investment and exit themes for the next 12-24 months. * Scott notes the continued importance of venture fundraising, despite the current low levels, and the role of established funds in deploying capital. * Scott highlights the importance of maintaining a robust exit environment, with a focus on mid-range exits in addition to the large ones. * Scott discusses the role of AI in healthcare innovation and its potential to drive investment and growth. Venture Debt and Capital Strategy * Maria asks about the role of venture debt and capital strategy in the industry. * Scott explains the importance of using venture debt alongside equity to extend cash runway and achieve higher valuations. * Scott discusses the competitive landscape for venture debt, with both banks and debt funds vying for market share. * Scott emphasizes the importance of selecting the right capital partner, one that offers sector expertise and a strong network. Georgia's Life Sciences Ecosystem and Future Growth * Maira asks about the current state of Georgia's life sciences ecosystem and its future growth potential. * Scott notes the maturation of the ecosystem, with a focus on health tech and the importance of large corporates in driving growth. * Scott discusses the need for continued development of local talent to support the growth of companies in Georgia. * Scott highlights the importance of leveraging the presence of large corporates and strategic investors to foster a strong ecosystem. Final Thoughts and Personal Insights * Maria asks for Scott McCarty's final thoughts and any personal insights. * Scott encourages entrepreneurs to hang in there, noting the potential for a new market cycle and improved access to capital. * Scott emphasizes the importance of strategic priorities, such as extending cash runway and achieving higher valuations. * Scott shares a personal interest in travel and spending time with his family, highlighting the importance of balance in life. About Georgia Life Sciences As the leading advocate for the state’s dynamic and diverse life sciences sector, Georgia Life Sciences’ mission is to advance the growth of Georgia’s life sciences industry through partnerships and initiatives that accelerate innovation, investment, and job creation. To accomplish this mission, Georgia Life Sciences conducts economic development activities; advocates on behalf of its members on public policy matters; educates the public about the benefits of life sciences research and product development; and provides a network for idea exchange and cooperation. For more information on the impactful work, to join as a member, or provide support to the mission, please visit Georgia Life Sciences at https://www.galifesciences.org/ [https://www.galifesciences.org/] About Cloudcast Media As the national leader in local podcasting to create a "listen where you live" mindset, Cloudcast Atlanta, a division of Cloudcast Media, proudly produces "VITALS: The Pulse of Georgia Life Sciences" through its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media. [https://cloudcastmedia.us/] This episode was produced by Senior Associate Producer Brandon Joe. The episode was recorded, engineered, mixed and mastered by Sky Guides Atlanta, the podcast program and studio affiliated with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) in Atlanta, Georgia.

S2 Ep5 | Lynn Durham, President & CEO, Georgia Core, A Neutral Party In Cancer Care: Collaboration, Clinical Trials, and Quality of Life

WELCOME TO VITALS, THE PULSE OF GEORGIA LIFE SCIENCES In this incredible, timely, and informative episode of VITALS, Maria Thacker, the CEO of Georgia Life Sciences, interviews Lynn Durham, President and CEO of Georgia Core, who discusses her journey from government and politics to leading a nonprofit focused on cancer care. Georgia Core, founded in 2003, aims to improve cancer care through research, education, and advocacy. The organization collaborates with healthcare systems across Georgia, emphasizing patient-centered care and clinical trials. Durham highlighted the importance of diversifying funding sources, including federal grants and industry partnerships. She also mentioned the Georgia Cancer Trial Finders program and a statewide colorectal cancer awareness campaign. Durham's personal experiences with cancer and her commitment to improving cancer care drive her work. Lynn Durham's Journey and Role at Georgia Core * Maria introduces Lynn Durham, President and CEO of Georgia Core, and highlights the importance of her work in the oncology space. * Lynn shares her career journey, starting with her work at Georgia Tech in government and politics, and her transition to becoming the president's chief of staff. * Lynn discusses her personal connection to cancer, having survived thyroid, breast, and chronic myeloid leukemia, and her involvement with Georgia Core's survivorship advisory board. * Lynn explains how she was asked to lead Georgia Core after the previous president retired, despite her initial plans to pursue higher education. Georgia Core's Mission and Structure * Maria asks about the meaning of "core," which stands for the Center for Oncology Research and Education. * Lynn explains that Georgia Core was founded in 2003 by Governor Roy Barnes to ensure Georgians had access to cancer care without leaving the state. * Georgia Core works with doctors, hospitals, and healthcare systems to improve cancer care through research, education, and advocacy. * The organization is not patient-facing but focuses on connecting researchers, providers, and patients to improve cancer care outcomes. Collaboration and Advocacy Efforts * Lynn emphasizes the importance of collaboration among physicians, administrators, and researchers to improve cancer care in Georgia. * Georgia Core has a strong board of 20 members, mostly oncologists, who work together to benefit Georgians. * The organization works with various healthcare systems across the state, including Northside, Emory, and Valdosta, to address different cancer care needs in different regions. * Lynn highlights the role of advisory boards and regional cancer coalitions in ensuring patient voices are integrated into research and care delivery. Funding and Diversification * Lynn discusses the funding sources for Georgia Core, including state funds, federal grants, and industry partnerships. * The organization has diversified its funding sources to include federal grants and industry sponsorships, reducing dependence on state funds. * Georgia Core also generates funds through license plates and a state income tax line for cancer research. * The organization funds seed grants for university researchers and supports nonprofits to provide cancer screenings and other services. Policy and Advocacy Challenges * Lynn addresses the challenges posed by uncertain federal and state policies on healthcare access, research funding, and drug pricing. * The uncertainty has impacted Georgia Core's ability to plan and secure funding for long-term projects. * The organization has had to adapt to changes in funding availability, including the need to hire clinical research nurses and navigators. * Lynn emphasizes the importance of advocacy and working with legislators to ensure continued support for cancer care initiatives. Workforce Development and Oncology Talent * Lynn discusses the challenges of workforce development in the oncology field, including recruitment and retention in rural areas. * Georgia Core has established a Cancer Care Access Committee to address workforce issues, including oncology nurses, PAs, and navigators. * The organization is working with the Technical College System of Georgia and AHEC to introduce students to oncology careers and develop apprenticeship programs. * Lynn highlights the need for legislative support to provide loan forgiveness for healthcare professionals working in rural areas. Innovative Programs and Initiatives * Lynn introduces the Georgia Cancer Trial Finders program, which helps patients and caregivers find clinical trials for various cancer types. * The program has received over 90 referrals and is proving to be a valuable resource for patients and researchers. * Georgia Core has launched a statewide colorectal cancer awareness campaign targeting people aged 25 to 54, aiming to increase awareness and early detection. * The campaign includes creative elements like "weird looking stools" in bars and coffee shops to raise awareness about colorectal cancer symptoms. Personal Motivation and Future Outlook * Lynn shares her personal motivation for leading Georgia Core, driven by her own cancer experiences and the stories of others. * She emphasizes the importance of providing quality cancer care to patients in all parts of Georgia, not just metropolitan areas. * Lynn highlights the progress made by Georgia Core in diversifying funding, increasing collaboration, and improving cancer care outcomes. * She expresses hope for the future of oncology research and patient care, driven by the innovative programs and initiatives being implemented by Georgia Core. About Georgia Life Sciences As the leading advocate for the state’s dynamic and diverse life sciences sector, Georgia Life Sciences’ mission is to advance the growth of Georgia’s life sciences industry through partnerships and initiatives that accelerate innovation, investment, and job creation. To accomplish this mission, Georgia Life Sciences conducts economic development activities; advocates on behalf its members on public policy matters; educates the public about the benefits of life sciences research and product development; and provides a network for idea exchange and cooperation. For more information on the impactful work, to join as a member, or provide support to the mission, please visit Georgia Life Sciences at https://www.galifesciences.org/ [https://www.galifesciences.org/] About Cloudcast Media As the national leader in local podcasting to create a "listen where you live" mindset, Cloudcast Atlanta, a division of Cloudcast Media, proudly produces "VITALS: The Pulse of Georgia Life Sciences" through its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media. [https://cloudcastmedia.us/] This episode was produced by Senior Associate Producer Brandon Joe. The episode was recorded, engineered, mixed and mastered by Sky Guides Atlanta, the podcast program and studio affiliated with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) in Atlanta, Georgia.

S2 Ep4 | Samir Patel, CEO, Moonlight Therapeutics, Homegrown Innovation: Microneedle Stamps for the Food Allergy Epidemic

WELCOME TO VITALS, THE PULSE OF GEORGIA LIFE SCIENCES In this incredible, timely, and informative episode of VITALS, Maria Thacker, the CEO of Georgia Life Sciences, interviews Dr. Samir Patel, President and CEO of Moonlight Therapeutics, who discusses the company's development of a micro-needle stamp for food allergy treatment. The technology, which aims to reduce side effects and improve patient adherence, is currently undergoing clinical trials. Moonlight has raised $9 million in SBIR funds and secured additional support from the NIH and the DoD. Patel emphasized the importance of simplifying product design and understanding regulatory requirements. He also highlighted the need for better ecosystem support in Georgia, advocating for more active networking and marketing of local innovations. Introduction and Background of Dr. Samir Patel * Maria Thacker introduces the podcast and welcomes Dr. Samir Patel, President and CEO of Moonlight Therapeutics. * Dr. Patel shares his background as an engineer turned entrepreneur, co-founding ClearSide Biomedical. * He discusses his educational background, including his PhD from Georgia Tech and dual Bachelor's degrees from UC Berkeley. * Dr. Patel explains his initial interest in the tech world and his pivot to the life sciences after a co-op at a J&J company. Moonlight Therapeutics and Food Allergy Focus * Dr. Patel talks about his move to Georgia and his interest in food allergies, which led him to start Moonlight Therapeutics. * He describes the initial challenges and the unmet need in the food allergy space. * Dr. Patel shares how he connected with a Georgia Tech professor to start researching food allergies. * The company officially formed in 2019, focusing on a micro-needle stamp approach to food allergy care. Technology and Clinical Trials * Dr. Patel explains the microneedle stamp technology and its benefits over existing food allergy treatments. * He discusses the current approved therapy for food allergies and its limitations. * The microneedle stamp aims to deliver allergens through the skin, avoiding GI side effects and making the treatment more convenient. * Dr. Patel highlights the importance of user experience and simplicity in product design. Regulatory Challenges and Investor Landscape * Dr. Patel shares insights on the regulatory process and the importance of understanding FDA requirements. * He discusses the challenges of being a combination product and the impact on investor interest. * Dr. Patel explains how the regulatory landscape has influenced his approach to product development. * He emphasizes the need for efficient use of capital and resources in the regulatory process. Clinical Trial and Future Plans * Dr. Patel talks about the upcoming clinical trial for Moonlight Therapeutics, focusing on safety and efficacy. * He explains the importance of finding a safe dose and monitoring immune markers in patients. * The trial will be conducted in Georgia, with sites in South Carolina and other Southeastern states. * Dr. Patel shares the company's long-term goals, including expanding the treatment to other allergens and developing combination therapies. Advice for First-Time Founders * Dr. Patel provides advice for first-time founders, emphasizing the importance of intellectual property and market understanding. * He discusses the need for a clear regulatory pathway and the role of non-dilutive funding in early-stage development. * Dr. Patel highlights the importance of networking and advocating for the company within the ecosystem. * He shares his experience with government grants and the value of leveraging multiple funding sources. Impact of Non-Dilutive Funding * Dr. Patel explains how non-dilutive funding, such as SBIR grants, can support early-stage companies. * He discusses the challenges of balancing research and product development to attract investors. * Dr. Patel emphasizes the importance of using government grants to move the product through the development process. * He shares his experience with the DoD grant and the need for creative funding strategies. Georgia Ecosystem and Future Goals * Dr. Patel discusses the strengths and gaps in the Georgia life sciences ecosystem. * He emphasizes the need for better marketing and advocacy for Georgia's research and innovation. * Dr. Patel highlights the importance of networking and engaging with larger ecosystems to attract investment and support. * He shares his vision for the future of Moonlight Therapeutics and the broader impact on food allergy treatment. Personal Insights and Final Thoughts * Dr. Patel shares a personal anecdote about gardening and its connection to starting companies. * He explains the parallels between growing plants and developing successful products. * Dr. Patel expresses his gratitude for the support and opportunities in Georgia. * Maria Thacker concludes the podcast, thanking Dr. Patel and the listeners, and highlighting the importance of community engagement and advocacy. About Georgia Life Sciences As the leading advocate for the state’s dynamic and diverse life sciences sector, Georgia Life Sciences’ mission is to advance the growth of Georgia’s life sciences industry through partnerships and initiatives that accelerate innovation, investment, and job creation. To accomplish this mission, Georgia Life Sciences conducts economic development activities; advocates on behalf its members on public policy matters; educates the public about the benefits of life sciences research and product development; and provides a network for idea exchange and cooperation. For more information on the impactful work, to join as a member, or provide support to the mission, please visit Georgia Life Sciences at https://www.galifesciences.org/ [https://www.galifesciences.org/] About Cloudcast Media As the national leader in local podcasting to create a "listen where you live" mindset, Cloudcast Atlanta, a division of Cloudcast Media, proudly produces "VITALS: The Pulse of Georgia Life Sciences" through its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media. [https://cloudcastmedia.us/] This episode was produced by Senior Associate Producer Brandon Joe. The episode was recorded, engineered, mixed and mastered by Sky Guides Atlanta, the podcast program and studio affiliated with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) in Atlanta, Georgia.

S2 Ep3 | Mike Walker, Exec Director, Microsoft, Augmenting and Accelerating Life Sciences Innovation With AI

WELCOME TO VITALS, THE PULSE OF GEORGIA LIFE SCIENCES In this incredible, timely, and informative episode of VITALS, Maria Thacker, the CEO of Georgia Life Sciences, interviews Mike Walker, Vice President of Health and Life Sciences at Microsoft, for a rubust discussion on the integration of AI in the life sciences industry. He emphasized the importance of focusing on non-sexy use cases like SOPs and document generation to enhance productivity and compliance. Walker highlighted the need for trustworthy data, governance, and a zero-trust architecture to ensure regulatory compliance. He also stressed the importance of AI in talent retention and acquisition, particularly in small and mid-size biotech companies. Looking ahead, he predicted significant advancements in biohacking and quantum computing, and advocated for a proactive approach in building the "factory of the future." Introduction * Maria Thacker introduces the podcast and welcomes Mike Walker, Vice President of Health and Life Science at Microsoft. * Mike Walker shares his background in corporate strategy, innovation management, and his time at Gartner as VP of Technology Innovation and CTO Strategy. * Mike discusses his role at Microsoft, emphasizing his work as a strategic advisor, a bridge between Microsoft and partners, and his experience in writing books and speaking at events. * Maria highlights the importance of AI in the life sciences industry and the growing manufacturing capacity in Georgia, mentioning companies like Takeda, Burning Rock, and J&J. AI in Life Sciences: Use Cases and Non-Sexy Applications * Maria asks Mike about the role of AI in the life sciences industry, specifically in pharma and biotech. * Mike advises focusing on non-sexy use cases like SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) and document generation for regulatory submissions. * He emphasizes the importance of data trustworthiness and the need to upskill talent within organizations to adopt AI. * Mike suggests avoiding advanced autonomous agents unless the organization is a leading innovator in AI. Generational Divide and AI Integration * Maria clarifies that Mike is referring to AI tools and not human agents when discussing the generational divide. * Mike explains the integration of AI tools like Copilot in Microsoft 365 and the importance of creating a platform of intelligence within organizations. * Maria shares a TikTok example of a woman discovering AI tools in her new company and the potential for AI to create efficiencies and save costs. * Mike discusses the architectural approach of creating a platform of intelligence and the importance of having AI capabilities accessible like an app store. Regulatory and Geopolitical Forces Driving AI Adoption * Maria asks why life sciences companies should care about AI, especially in a regulated industry. * Mike explains the amplification of workforce productivity through AI and the importance of AI in regulatory compliance and geopolitical aspects. * He discusses the impact of regulatory changes, tariffs, and high-risk jurisdictions on supply chain networks and the role of AI in optimizing operations. * Mike highlights the aging population and the need for AI to supplement workforce efforts and create a framework for talent retention and acquisition. AI in New Product Introduction and Tech Transfer * Maria and Mike discuss the importance of AI in new product introduction (NPI) and tech transfer. * Mike explains the challenges of hitting a patent cliff and the need for AI to maximize patent life cycles and improve NPI processes. * He emphasizes the role of AI in creating repeatability and reducing the time to onboard new drugs. * Maria and Mike agree on the importance of AI in small and mid-size biotech companies to stay competitive and agile. Credibility and Governance of AI in Life Sciences * Maria asks about the credibility of AI and the need for guardrails and fallback systems. * Mike emphasizes the importance of trustworthy data, governance, and zero-trust architecture to ensure regulatory compliance. * He discusses the need for AI systems to be evergreen and agile in adapting to new regulatory requirements. * Maria and Mike agree on the importance of having SOPs in place to track data and ensure compliance. Practical Steps for Small Companies to Integrate AI * Maria asks about practical steps for small companies to integrate AI. * Mike suggests starting small, using AI to help with upskilling and adopting AI tools like Copilot. * He recommends hiring AI digital natives to shadow existing employees and share best practices. * Mike emphasizes the importance of investing in talent and upskilling the existing workforce to leverage institutional knowledge. Future of AI in Life Sciences: Short-Term and Long-Term Impact * Maria asks about the future of AI in life sciences and its impact on patients and the industry. * Mike predicts that biohacking and quantum computing will have significant impacts in the next 5-10 years. * He discusses the potential of biohacking to create meaningful data and human augmentation. * Mike highlights the importance of quantum computing in security algorithms and its potential to revolutionize the industry. Building the Factory of the Future * Maria and Mike discuss the concept of the factory of the future and its importance in life sciences. * Mike emphasizes the need for a blueprint to define the capabilities and requirements of future manufacturing sites. * He suggests that states and companies should proactively define what the factory of the future should look like. * Maria highlights the opportunity for states like Georgia to be ahead of the game by defining and building the factory of the future. Final Thoughts and Call to Action * Maria asks Mike for his final message to the growing ecosystem of small to mid-size biotech and medical device companies in Georgia * Mike advises being deliberate in innovation and leveraging AI in smart ways to achieve business objectives. * He emphasizes the importance of aligning AI initiatives with shareholder and investor KPIs. * Maria concludes the conversation by highlighting the importance of AI in bringing treatments and cures to patients faster and creating efficiencies in the industry. About Georgia Life Sciences As the leading advocate for the state’s dynamic and diverse life sciences sector, Georgia Life Sciences’ mission is to advance the growth of Georgia’s life sciences industry through partnerships and initiatives that accelerate innovation, investment, and job creation. To accomplish this mission, Georgia Life Sciences conducts economic development activities; advocates on behalf its members on public policy matters; educates the public about the benefits of life sciences research and product development; and provides a network for idea exchange and cooperation. For more information on the impactful work, to join as a member, or provide support to the mission, please visit Georgia Life Sciences at https://www.galifesciences.org/ [https://www.galifesciences.org/] About Cloudcast Media As the national leader in local podcasting to create a "listen where you live" mindset, Cloudcast Atlanta, a division of Cloudcast Media, proudly produces "VITALS: The Pulse of Georgia Life Sciences" through its CauseCast platform to help amplify, augment, and accelerate the mission and reach of community social impact organizations.  For more information on Cloudcast Media, please visit their website at CloudCast Media. [https://cloudcastmedia.us/] This episode was produced by Senior Associate Producer Brandon Joe. The episode was recorded, engineered, mixed and mastered by Sky Guides Atlanta, the podcast program and studio affiliated with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) in Atlanta, Georgia.