Spark Time!

In this episode of Spark Time!, we speak with Øystein Rekdal, co-founder and CEO of Lytix Biopharma, about how the company reimagined host-defense peptides as a new class of oncolytic molecules for cancer immunotherapy.Øystein shares the full arc of Lytix’s development, from an academic discovery in Norway to a clinical-stage platform built around locally administered oncolytic molecules designed to activate the immune system where standard treatments fall short. We explore how Lytix isolated and engineered naturally occurring peptides into drug candidates with clinical momentum, and why this approach differs fundamentally from both traditional cytotoxic agents and oncolytic viruses.The conversation dives into how Lytix’s lead program induces immunogenic cell death, exposes tumor antigens, and initiates a broad immune response that extends beyond the treated lesion. We also discuss the company’s strategic focus on combination and neo-adjuvant settings, its rationale for intratumoral delivery, and how this platform is positioned to address non-responsive solid tumors.A thoughtful discussion for biotech leaders, investors, and partners interested in differentiated immunotherapy platforms and the strategic decisions required to translate novel biology into real clinical relevance.

What if an Alzheimer’s therapy did not just slow decline, but restored memory and physical health back to baseline?In this episode of Spark Time, we sit down with Dan Salain, President and CEO of Recall Therapeutics, and Dr. Atul Chopra, Co-founder and CSO, to unpack one of the boldest ideas in neuroscience today: RTX-100, a gene therapy designed to restore cognition and systemic health in Alzheimer’s disease. Dan and Atul walk us through the science behind targeting memory circuits rather than just clearing amyloid, how a liver-expressed protein naturally crosses the blood–brain barrier, and why their preclinical data show full recovery of associative, recognition, and spatial memory in advanced mouse models.We also explore the overlooked systemic side of Alzheimer’s cachexia, sarcopenia, frailty, UTIs, pneumonia and how RTX-100 appears to normalize body weight, muscle strength, endurance, and fluid balance alongside cognitive recovery. From serendipity in the lab to regulatory strategy and potential paths to market, this conversation opens up a very different vision for what treating Alzheimer’s and even aging itself could look like.

In this episode, we have a, high-energy conversation with Molly Mulligan and Ken Savin from Space MD about how space-made crystals are changing drug development on Earth. Their team grows protein crystals on the International Space Station because in zero gravity, the structures form more perfectly, revealing details that scientists can’t see on the ground. One of their first successes was Keytruda, where space-grown crystals helped refine molecular structures that shaped a blockbuster therapy. We also cover running experiments in orbit, scaling the model for everyday pharma, and what happens when microgravity becomes just another R&D tool. It’s biotech, but cosmic.

We talk with Alan Gourdie and Spencer Marsh from The Tiny Cargo Company, the team commercializing one of nature’s most elegant delivery systems, milk-derived exosomes.We dig into what makes milk exosomes uniquely suited for oral delivery of peptides and GLP-1’s, and beyond. From biologics and monoclonal antibodies to skincare actives and nutraceuticals, the implications reach across human health.Spencer and Alan break down the biology, the scalability, and the data behind their platform; high loading efficiency, barrier penetration, long-term stability, and natural biocompatibility, and what it takes to turn a naturally evolved system into an industrial-scale solution for pharma and consumer health.A conversation about precision delivery, sustainability, and how sometimes the most advanced technology has been in nature all along.

Neuropathic pain affects nearly 10% of the global population, yet effective treatments remain elusive. In this episode of Spark Time, we sit down with oncologists-turned-biotech-founders Christian Kersten and Marte Cameron of Akigai to hear the remarkable story of how a serendipitous clinical observation led to a new approach for treating chronic pain.From the first wheelchair-bound patient who walked again after EGFR inhibitor therapy, to the 100+ patients who have since experienced life-changing relief, Christian and Marte share the science and the vision behind Akigai’s mission: to bring effective, non-opioid solutions to millions living with neuropathic pain. This is a story of discovery, persistence, and hope for one of medicine’s most stubborn challenges.

In this expansive episode, Aneil Mallavarapu delivers a masterclass on what TechBio is really about and why most investors and founders are still getting it wrong. We dig into the communication gap between technical genius and venture capital, the brutal economics of research tools, the data dilemmas in wet AI, and why the future belongs to founders who can both build deep and speak simply.Aneil shares hard truths about platform strategy, revenue (yes, revenue), and the myth of “cool diagnostics” inside a broken healthcare system. But this isn’t just about critique. It’s a hopeful, strategic call for a new generation of purposeful companies, built not only for returns but for impact. If you're working at the intersection of biology, tech, and meaning, this is the one to listen to.

Learn how flexibility, real-time control, and localized trial expertise are reshaping the future of CRO's from the man redefining it. Listen in as Ardian Latifi breaks down why Southern CDC’s sponsor-first model is more than an experiment; it’s the new path forward.In this episode of Spark Time!, we sit down with Dr. Ardian Latifi, founder and CEO of Southern Clinical Development Consulting (Southern CDC). Ardian shares how his frustration with big, bureaucratic CROs inspired a bold, leaner model. One built for biotech sponsors, not shareholders.Forget the one-size-fits-all, multi-billion-dollar corporate CROs. Ardian's approach puts sponsors back in the driver’s seat, with modular teams, consultants limited to just 2–3 projects at a time, and radically transparent pricing and timelines. No hidden handoffs or surprise delays. Just direct access, expert-driven trials built for speed and clarity.

In this episode of Spark Time, we sit down with Steve McIntyre, CEO of Agilex Biolabs, Cameron Smith, Chief Business Development Officer, Agilex Biolabs and Mike Burfield, Partner with RDI partners, a leader in Australian R&D tax services.We dive into why Australia has become a strategic hub for global biotech development, and how Agilex Biolabs is helping companies move faster, smarter, and farther with their non-clinical and clinical development, global regulatory readiness, and access to a 43.5% R&D tax rebate.From cutting-edge BioA and tox capabilities to decoding the strategic and financial advantages that most U.S. biotechs miss, this episode is packed with insight for anyone looking to stretch their runway and accelerate drug development timelines.Listen in to learn how to make Australia part of your R&D strategy.

What does a former Google leader see when he looks at the drug discovery process? A broken system and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rebuild it with AI. Javier Tordable spent 16 years at Google leading technical teams, and helping global pharma companies modernize through AI in his role as Technical Director in the CTO office. Now he’s the founder and CEO of Pauling AI, an early-stage startup using molecular simulation to radically accelerate how new medicines are found. In this episode, Javier breaks down what biotech gets fundamentally wrong about AI and the cost of those misconceptions. We explore the bold bets he’s making to reshape the industry, what biotech teams get wrong when explaining cutting-edge science, and how hosting his own podcast, The Pauling Perspective, has sharpened his lens on what truly resonates. Also on the table: Linus Pauling, investor mind games, and the one prediction about drug development that might make traditionalists sweat. This one’s for the engineers, the skeptics, and anyone daring to rethink what’s possible.

We sit down with Maree Beare, the visionary CEO and founder of Clinials. Maree shares her journey in transforming clinical trials through AI-driven solutions, that streamline processes, enhance operational efficiency, and make research more accessible to diverse populations.She breaks down the long-standing bottlenecks in clinical trials, and shares why and how she built a platform to tackle the complexity and inefficiencies head-on.We explore how Clinials is redefining communication, simplifying protocols, automating workflows, and accelerating decision-making to drive faster, more cost-effective, and inclusive trials globally. Maree also discusses the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in clinical research, and how technology can play a pivotal role in achieving these goals.Tune in to discover why she’s becoming one of the most compelling voices at the intersection of AI, clinical trials, and patient-centric care.

This week we are joined by Jason Foster, CEO of Ori Biotech to talk about the future of CGT and why scalable strategic manufacturing is in a make or break moment, his experience scaling Indivior from 5 to 1,100 people culminating in a £3B exit and the powerful culture behind that growth, the Bluebird Bio acquisition and what it means for CGT investment today, and why he is deeply optimistic about Ori Biotech’s automated, closed platform. A must-listen for anyone building, investing in, or scaling the next era of biotech.

In this episode, we sit down with Audrey Greenberg, Founder and CEO of AG Capital Advisors, to explore her journey building and scaling the Center for Breakthrough Medicines into one of the largest advanced therapies CDMOs. Audrey shares how she fosters a strong culture in her ventures, her insights on the critical need for more women in capital allocation roles, and where she sees the cell and gene therapy field heading next – including what it will take to get there.

We sit down with Emily Fang, CEO of InFocus Therapeutics, to discuss her global BD career, partnerships in biotech, and the state of RNA-targeting small molecules. Emily describes the deep understanding she builds with partners and investors around the world.

Martin Brenner is the CEO of iBio, a company advancing antibody therapeutics for obesity using multiple AI engines – but the company started in a very different place. Listen to Martin describe the company’s transformation, how leaders in AI and biology can refocus their narrative on reality, and what kind of team he builds for success.

Kate Beebe Devarney is a neuroscientist and biotech executive focused on bringing relief to cancer patients through Moxie Therapeutics. Listen in as she speaks candidly about the lessons she has taken from her own experiences with cancer as well as, in many cases, being the only woman in the room.

This week we’re joined by Jessica Owens, co-founder and GP at Initiate Ventures, who have just announced their launch of Fund I. A co-founder of GRAIL, Jessica shares her experiences in both raising and deploying capital, what she gets excited about in working with founders, and how communication strategies have changed dramatically in the last few years.

John Montgomery of Goodlab joins us for a lively conversation about the visual side of biotech – how a good (or bad!) brand shapes the entire organization, and what elements are necessary at different stages of business. We also discuss how “safe” branding isn’t always the safest option.

Join us for a fascinating discussion with Hugh Alsop, CEO of Kinoxis Therapeutics, a spin-out of The University of Sydney. We discuss communicating hard science through emotional impact, and their programs in substance use disorders and neurodegeneration.

Jonathan Steckbeck is CEO of Peptilogics, where he is charting a path to therapeutic and commercial success in antimicrobials. Listen in as he describes how AI is impacting their work, and how he draws inspiration from games like poker.

Jeff Baker, biotech veteran and former FDA Deputy Director, describes how the ability to tell a story is a competitive advantage, even in discussions with the FDA. We also dive deep into the COVID response and advanced manufacturing

Simon Goldman manages the UCL Tech Fund’s life sciences team through Albion VC – he’s especially interested in cell and gene therapies, and shares with us his perspectives on translating science out of academia and into the clinic, as well as what selling means in the US versus the UK. Finally, another Australian joins the podcast!

Roy Baynes M.D., Ph.D, has been instrumental in developing some of the most impactful drugs, including Keytruda. Listen in as he shares his learnings from decades of innovation in cancer treatment across pharma, biopharma and biotech.

Chris Hoyt is a biotech exec focused on advancing cures for neurodegenerative disease, but he comes from a tech background. Listen in as he speaks candidly about what the field has been through, and how he relishes the opportunity to progress treatments for patients who need them.

Dillan Dinardo is a seasoned healthcare investor turned psychedelic medicine leader. Join us as he discusses how psychedelic medicine is the next frontier of mental health care, and how the field is driving scientific innovation to transformative change.

Explore the entrepreneurial path of John Lewis with us – from Canadian income tax consultant to biotech exec, John has carried a passion for building teams and putting innovation to work to solve some big problems in drug delivery.

David Lucchino, former Chairman of Mass Bio and CEO of Frequency, has seen every situation from the helm. Join us as we discuss his strategies for communication, and how teamwork and relationship building fuels his successes.

Josh Schimmer is the preeminent equity analyst in the biotech industry; he's seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. Join us as we dive deep into his experiences reviewing corporate decks, the consequence of a deck falling short and the missed opportunity for a relationship.

Colin Sanford is a biotech PR expert, join us as he discusses the importance of on-boarding a comms team early and growing that relationship to ensure  your well-executed communication strategy can drive scientific innovation to transformative change.

Melissa Moore is a pioneering scientist and an engaging storyteller.  Join us as she discusses how compelling storytelling in science communication can drive scientific innovation to transformative change.

Join us as we discuss with Garrett Vygantas the essential elements of messaging from a biotech VC investor’s perspective.

Join us as we discuss with Hartaj Singh the essential elements of messaging in the public biotech arena, and his advice to management teams of early-stage companies.

Join us as we discuss with Dan Ferry how he has witnessed the importance of a well-executed communication strategy to drive scientific innovation to transformative change.

Join us as we discuss with Dr. Dietrich Stephan how he has used compelling storytelling in his investment pitches to drive scientific innovation to transformative change.