Fractals: Life Science Conversations

Pharmaceutical manufacturing still struggles with a fundamental challenge: turning complex science into reliable, scalable, real-world processes. Dr. Michael Choi has spent his career solving exactly that. As Founder of PCTS and a pioneer in tablet coating simulation, Michael has developed tools that bring clarity to one of the most complex—and often misunderstood—steps in drug production. In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, Michael and host Colin Miller discuss: The hidden variability behind coating uniformity, and why probability sits at the core of the process How small, overlooked variables (like minor temperature shifts) can drive major manufacturing failures Why “more advanced” technology doesn’t always mean better outcomes without grounding in fundamentals The growing gap between sophisticated modelling tools and the teams who need them most How digital twins, continuous manufacturing, and AI could converge to transform production over the next decade At its core, this episode is about making science usable: bridging theory and execution to deliver better outcomes across the product lifecycle. Listen now on your preferred platform—and connect with Bracken to learn how we help translate complex science into actionable strategy.

What if maternal care was a proactive partner in your baby’s development, not just stepping in at a point of crisis?On this episode of Fractals, Cory Wyman, Director of Marketing at SimpliFed, joins Colin Miller to unpack how virtual lactation and baby-feeding support can reshape maternal health: clinically, emotionally, and economically.From the episode:Why baby feeding is often the first point of contact in postpartum careHow virtual care creates deeper honesty and stronger provider-patient trustThe link between feeding challenges and maternal mental healthWhy screening at every appointment changes outcomesHow SimpliFed aligns value-based outcomes for payers, employers, and familiesWhat tech-enabled provider services get right that standalone apps missCory also shares a compelling vision for the future of maternal health—where digital tools are directly connected to real providers, not left to parents to interpret alone.Listen to Fractals on your favorite podcast platform, and connect with Bracken to learn how we support life science and digital health organizations.

With more than two decades of experience spanning clinical practice, translational research, and global industry leadership, Bracken Senior Partner Dr. Deepak Behera has actively shaped how radiopharmaceuticals are developed, evaluated, and delivered to patients. As President and CEO of Adaptive Research and Senior Partner at Bracken, Deepak is an expert in connecting science, strategy, and real-world execution.In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, Deepak and host Colin Miller discuss:Why imaging is more than visualization, and how it functions as a powerful biomarker in theranosticsWhen diagnostics should stand on their own, rather than being treated as a secondary companion to therapyHow imaging-only studies can uncover unexpected biology and sharpen indication strategy earlyThe operational, economic, and educational realities that determine whether radiopharmaceuticals succeed post-approvalWhy multidisciplinary skill sets—not linear career paths—are essential for the next generation of radiopharma leadersTune in to Fractals on your preferred podcast platform, and reach out to Bracken to learn how we help sponsors navigate imaging-driven development and radiopharmaceutical strategy with confidence.

Mary Hardy, Chief Commercial Officer at SimpliFed, is helping reshape maternal health care with a virtual platform that supports families before birth and well beyond the baby’s first milestones. By combining lactation guidance, postpartum care, maternal mental health screening, and remote monitoring, SimpliFed is setting a new standard for holistic, accessible maternal care.In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, Mary joins host Colin Miller to explore:How SimpliFed’s virtual care model bridges gaps in maternal health, particularly in underserved areas and for mobile families.The integration of prenatal planning, postpartum support, and behavioral health referrals to improve both outcomes and patient experience.Leveraging technology and human relationships together to deliver personalized care at scale.Insights from Mary’s journey in healthcare, and her vision for embedding community and connection into maternal care.Tune into Fractals on your preferred podcast platform, and contact Bracken to discover how our cross-functional teams support life science and digital health solutions.

What if a nasal spray could switch off acute social anxiety in minutes—without systemic side effects?Shawn Singh, CEO of Vistagen, joins Fractals to explain how pherines work: odorless intranasal molecules that tap the olfactory pathway to flip specific brain circuits on and off.Highlights from the episode:How pherines activate the nose → olfactory bulb → targeted brain regions in milliseconds.Why fasadienol could be the first acute pharmacologic option for social anxiety disorder.The practical benefits of nasal-delivered treatment: on-demand use, fewer systemic risks, and new opportunities for people to engage in life (work, school, medical care).Real CEO lessons on resilience, trial design, and building teams that span science, regulatory, and operations.Tune into the full episode on your preferred podcast platform and contact Bracken to learn how we can support you from development through regulatory and commercial planning.

With more than four decades of experience in oncology, cardiovascular imaging, ultrasound, and radioligand therapy, Dr. François Tranquart has helped shape the field of molecular imaging from both sides of the table—first as an academic physician and researcher, and later as an industry leader driving global clinical development.In this French-language episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, François joins host Paul Martinetti to share:Why the transition from academia to industry brought new opportunities for innovation.The critical role of collaboration and patient-centered thinking in clinical research.How emerging tools like AI, FAP tracers, and therapeutic ultrasound are transforming nuclear medicine.The biggest lessons he’s learned across 40+ years of advancing imaging and therapeutic solutions.Listen to the full conversation on your favorite podcast platform, and connect with Bracken to learn how our cross-functional expertise can support your development strategy.

What does it take to lead successful drug development—whether at a global pharma giant or a small biotech start-up?In this episode of SNiPs, Dr. David Krause joins Bracken CEO Dr. Colin Miller to reflect on three decades of experience spanning large organizations like GSK to fast-moving start-ups. From aligning clinical development with medical affairs to serving “many masters” in drug development, patients, regulators, providers, and marketers, Dr. Krause shares insights on how to keep the patient at the center while driving innovation forward.Topics include:Lessons learned moving from big pharma to start-upsThe evolving relationship between medical affairs and clinical developmentBalancing regulatory, commercial, and patient prioritiesWhy knowing what you don’t know is key to success in smaller companiesListen to this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations wherever you get your podcasts—and connect with Bracken to learn how we support drug development from concept to approval.

With more than 30 years of experience spanning global pharma, emerging biotech, and the evolving field of personalized medicine, Bracken Senior Partner Dr. David Krause has helped shape the clinical and regulatory landscape across therapeutic areas—from vaccines and anti-infectives to neuropsychiatry and oncology.As a physician, former Chief Medical Officer, and trusted development advisor, David brings a uniquely humanist and interdisciplinary lens to the science and strategy of drug development.In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, David and host Colin Miller explore:How leadership style must evolve from large pharma to small biotech—and why succession planning matters more than you think.The future of personalized medicine in CNS and oncology—and how AI, genetics, and neuroplasticity are reshaping treatment paradigms.What pharma can learn from infectious disease: why psychiatry is just now catching up to decades-old precision strategies in anti-infectives.Reflections on partnering with the FDA, lessons learned from vaccine development, and the clinical promise of psychedelics.Listen to Fractals on your favorite podcast platform, and contact Bracken to learn how our cross-functional teams can support your clinical, medical, and regulatory strategy.

Can AI help radiologists see what humans can’t—and speed up drug development in the process?In this episode of SNiPs, Dr. Ben Larimer joins Bracken CEO Dr. Colin Miller to explore how artificial intelligence and machine learning are redefining what’s possible in molecular imaging. From interpreting complex PET scans to designing radiopharmaceuticals faster than ever, the future of diagnostics is being shaped by intelligent tools.Dr. Larimer shares real-world examples of how AI is already shaping radiopharmaceutical innovation and clinical trial design—and why the era of data-driven diagnostics is just getting started.Topics include:PET imaging and tumor heterogeneityAI-assisted radiologyAccelerating development of imaging agentsThe promise of radiomics and multimodal dataTune in now and explore how intelligent tools are reshaping life sciences from pixel to patient.

As a scientist, innovator, and CEO of CytoSite BioPharma, Dr. Ben Larimer has reshaped how we think about imaging immune response in cancer. His work on Granzyme B PET imaging is unlocking unprecedented insights into whether—and where—immunotherapies are working inside the body.In this episode of Fractals, Ben joins host Colin Miller to discuss:The origins of Granzyme B imaging and what makes it a uniquely powerful imaging agent.How CytoSite’s imaging agent revealed success in preclinical models—and sparked a new clinical path forward.The balance between scientific innovation and real-world biotech execution.Why PET imaging’s future depends on AI, cost reduction, and deeper diagnostic precision.Tune into Fractals: Life Science Conversations wherever you get your podcasts—and contact Bracken to learn how we help imaging agents move from molecule to market.

With more than two decades of experience at the intersection of biostatistics and biomedical imaging, Bracken Senior Partner Dr. David Raunig has been a driving force in biomarker development, validation, and regulatory strategy. From leading FDA biomarker qualification review teams to co-inventing imaging advancements and setting industry-wide standards through QIBA, David has played a pivotal role in defining how we measure—and trust—biological data in clinical trials.In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, David and host Colin Miller explore:What truly defines a biomarker—and how clinical outcome assessments differ from biological markers.Why the FDA’s "context of use" is key to biomarker qualification and how to demonstrate that a biomarker measures what it’s meant to.How the evolution of imaging—from WHO criteria to RECIST to AI-assisted reads—could transform how we assess tumor burden and therapeutic response.Statistical strategies for trial design and endpoint validation, and why QIBA’s standardized imaging protocols are essential tools for trial sponsors.Tune in to Fractals on your favorite podcast platform, and connect with Bracken to learn how David and our experts can support your clinical trial strategy from biomarker planning to regulatory approval.

In drug development, the right biomarker can mean the difference between success and a missed opportunity. In this episode of SNiPs, Bracken Senior Partner David Raunig, PhD explores how imaging biomarkers—like DXA and the fracture risk score—are being used in new ways to assess efficacy in clinical trials, especially for rare and complex diseases. David breaks down the evolving landscape of FDA qualification, highlighting a flexible path that allows sponsors to leverage novel endpoints without requiring tens of thousands of patients. From muscle mass in aging populations to trial-specific biomarker strategies, he shares valuable insight into what’s possible today—and what’s coming next.

Scientist, entrepreneur, and investor—three small words to describe the way Hatch BioFund Managing Partner Dr. Lorenzo Pellegrini has devoted his career to translating the cutting-edge into impactful solutions. From founding six biotech companies to driving investments in industry-shaping firms like Elevation Pharmaceuticals and Anacor, Lorenzo has consistently championed the necessity of fusion between innovation and practicality in the life sciences. In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, Lorenzo and host Colin Miller take a wide-ranging deep dive on:The rapid evolution of biotech within the last few decades, from small molecules to biologics, and its impact on drug evolution, supply, demand, and adaptation.Balancing financial success with societal impact in life sciences venture capital decisions—and why 80% of these decisions hinge not upon the science, but on the management team executing it.The role of fractional support in scaling startups and avoiding costly over-hiring mistakes.The importance of exploring global markets beyond the US to diversify pricing and reimbursement strategies.Tune in to Fractals on your preferred podcast platform, and contact Bracken to learn more about how we can support biotech companies in navigating complex M&A decisions.

What does it take to balance bold innovation with prudent decision-making in biotech? Lorenzo Pellegrini, PhD, Managing Partner at Hatch BioFund, shares his perspective and experience on the strategic choices that define success—and survival—in the industry.From securing $20M to $200M in funding, to grappling with the complexities of portfolio diversification, Lorenzo unpacks the critical factors biotech companies must consider. He discusses the nuances of resource allocation, the power of clear go-no-go decisions, and the trade-offs between focusing on a single asset or building a broader pipeline.Lorenzo’s insights on navigating the high-stakes world of biotech will apply to founders, investors, and industry professionals alike—in 5 minutes or less.Catch SNiPs on your favorite podcast platform, and connect with Bracken to explore how we can help drive your company’s M&A success.

With career highlights including the launch of Ivermectin and NuvaRing, along with expertise spanning microbiome therapeutics, M&A, regulatory affairs, and clinical and non-clinical development, it’s no surprise that Bracken Senior Partner Dr. Graham Lumsden is striving to shift our approach to healthcare. Holding a doctorate in veterinary medicine, Graham takes an integrated approach that bridges the various facets of life sciences. He advocates for preventative medicine and strategic partnerships to drive meaningful changes in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. With years of experience, Dr. Lumsden recognizes that the future of medicine is not just about treatment—it’s about prevention, accessibility, and aligning scientific progress with market needs.In this episode of Fractals: Life Science Conversations, Graham and host Colin Miller discuss:Why accessible medicine is a smart investment for both patients and payers, shifting the cost burden from reactive to proactive care, and revolutionizing healthcare delivery.The power of strategic partnerships and mutual benefits, particularly for small biotech companies seeking to launch successful products.The innovative "Label As Driver" (LAD) approach that ensures early product development aligns with market demands and long-term goals.How go-to-market and commercialization strategies must adapt to regional differences, prioritizing each market’s unmet needs, effective communication, and connecting treatments to the right audience.Listen to Fractals: Life Science Conversations on your favorite podcast platform, and contact us today to learn more about working with Graham and Bracken’s team of expert consultants.

In the biopharmaceutical industry, groundbreaking discoveries may start in the lab—but to reach the market, they require more than just great science.In this SNiP, life sciences veteran Dr. Graham Lumsden highlights an essential yet often overlooked step: identifying unmet medical needs before developing a solution. Drawing from decades of experience, Graham shares the value and necessity of a market-first approach, where science and business strategy align to drive commercial success. Especially relevant for researchers and investors seeking to bridge the gap between discovery and market adoption, Graham discusses the importance of anticipating customer needs and ensuring a clear path to profitability—a critical foundation that turns innovative research into impactful, sustainable products. Tune in for Graham’s practical approach and subscribe to Fractals today to be the first to hear the full-length conversation!

One could describe Mary Costello as a world-class expert in international marketing, business initiatives, and leadership, with a background in patient advocacy, global marketing initiatives, and clinical trial solutions—and one would be correct. Her impressive career includes roles such as Head of Site and Investigator Network at Medable, Vice President of Clinic Development & Patient Advocacy at Elligo Health Research, and Vice President/Global Director of Marketing at leading life science organizations like eClinical Solutions, Fisher Clinical Services, and Covance.But Mary is not just an accomplished leader; she’s also a skilled question-asker, with the unique ability to construct innovative solutions from complex subjects. Join Mary and host Colin Miller on a question-and-answer filled episode of Fractals, where they hypothesize about connectivity in today’s life sciences industry, including, but certainly not limited to: The evolution of patient recruitment and the two key factors driving change: the accessibility of data-driven decisions and the rise of digital healthcare.Our early understanding of how AI can bridge essential gaps in clinical and marketing areas by automating mundane tasks that enhance patient engagement, such as delivering marketing messages, building trust, and prompting action.The limitations of the "one-and-done" model in patient care, emphasizing the need for flexibility and connectivity in inclusive, accessible treatment to achieve sustainable success.The foundational role of pre-competitive collaboration and widespread education in advancing life sciences and improving human lives. Listen to Fractals: Life Science Conversations via your preferred podcast service, and contact us today to learn more.

When launching a product or service, it all comes down to one essential question: what problem are you really trying to solve?In this SNiP, global marketing strategist and life science industry expert Mary Costello breaks down the essential steps to uncovering the root causes of a company’s marketing challenges. From the importance of understanding buyer behavior to the consequences of burning through time and money without validating demand, Mary shares the realities of marketing that every life science startup, large-scale company, and clinical research organization must face.With practical advice on avoiding costly mistakes and insight into aligning your strategy with customer needs, Mary’s approach is as actionable as it is insightful—and she delivers it in under 8 minutes.Tune in now, and subscribe to Fractals to be the first to hear Mary’s upcoming full-length episode.

With expertise in pharmacology, due diligence, strategic planning, peptide-based therapeutics, and beyond, it’s no wonder that Bracken co-founder and Managing Partner Dr. Jim Gilligan is also leading the way in therapeutic psychedelic drug development. With 35+ years of expertise, Jim’s cutting-edge work is reshaping our approach to mental health and chronic pain management. This integrated approach combines clinical insight with scientific innovation, turning psychedelic research into practical, impactful treatments.In this episode of Fractals, join Jim and host Colin Miller as they explore:The groundbreaking science behind psilocybin-assisted therapy and its potential to revolutionize mental health and chronic pain treatment.The essential role of clinical trials in validating psychedelic drugs, and insights into navigating the complex regulatory landscape.Strategies for biotech startups to attract investors, blending robust clinical data with a compelling commercial strategy.How investing in the future of science means supporting areas with high clinical impact, sustainable healthcare solutions, transformative research, and the growth of young scientists.Listen to Fractals: Life Science Conversations via your preferred podcast service, and contact us today to learn more about working with Jim and Bracken’s team of expert consultants.

Imagine a world where therapeutic psychedelic drugs aren’t just visionary, but practical, scalable, and scientifically sound. That world is almost here. In this SNiP, Bracken Co-Founder and Managing Partner Jim Gilligan, PhD takes us behind the scenes of his groundbreaking advances in psilocybin treatment. Jim reveals how an integrated approach can turn bold ideas into commercial reality, with insights on regulating psilocin for therapy and advice for bringing revolutionary, patient-focused solutions to market—all in under 7 minutes.Tune in now, and subscribe to Fractals for Jim’s full episode, releasing October 3rd, for a deep dive into psychedelic medicine, biopharma startups, M&A, and more.