The Long Game

Sandy & Ross
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The Long Game is a podcast that demystifies the science shaping our lives, and explores how great ideas built in Scotland become real-world medicines, devices, and companies at the cutting edge of life sciences.

  1. 6 days ago

    E15: Scotland's Cardiovascular Crisis

    Most companies overlook a massive opportunity in early diagnosis for cardiovascular disease, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. On this episode of The Long Game, Ross and Sandy reveal how Scotland’s thriving biotech ecosystem is turning understanding of the “broken heart” into ground breaking tech that could save lives and billions in healthcare costs. Right now, Scotland faces an alarming crisis: a stunning one-third of all deaths are caused by heart disease, stroke, and related vascular conditions, and it hits women twice as hard as breast cancer. Despite common myths, heart disease is not just an "old man's disease"—it’s the leading killer of women too, and it often goes unnoticed until it's too late. You’ll discover compelling data that shatters misconceptions, showing how genetics, lifestyle, and stark health inequalities combine to make cardiovascular disease Scotland’s #1 health burden. We break down how early diagnostics, innovative imaging techniques, and leveraging Scotland’s rich health data can tip the balance. You'll learn about the Scottish initiatives that use AI and predictive analytics to catch heart issues before they become catastrophic. Plus, Sandy shares how the Scottish biotech scene is poised to turn these insights into impactful startups, and the crucial role entrepreneurs can play in driving structural cost savings for the NHS. Missing this opportunity means accepting inevitability and delaying action that could save lives and billions. Meanwhile, detailed research and tech innovation promise a future where early detection is standard, and preventable deaths drop significantly. This isn’t just science; it’s an economic game-changer for Scotland and beyond.

    36 min

  2. 24 Jun

    E14: Bio-Economics of Murder - The Glasgow Poisoner

    Most medical trust is based on a simple signature, until it isn’t. A 19th-century Glasgow doctor’s deadly misuse of that trust not only shocked the nation but also helped shape the foundation of modern forensic science. Discover how one man’s dark deeds as the "Glasgow Poisoner" exposed horrifying weaknesses in a system that still challenges us today and why verifying trust has never been more crucial. In this gripping episode, Sandy and Ross unravel the true story of Dr. Edward William Pritchard, a respected doctor turned murderer, who used his medical knowledge to commit the perfect crime. You’ll learn how his use of poisons like aconite and antimony mimicked natural illnesses, hiding his devilish handiwork for weeks. We break down the evolution of forensic toxicology, highlighting the ground breaking forensic methods born from this case; methods that still protect us. You'll discover how this early scientific triumph paved the way for today's standards, and why trusted authorities must always be scrutinised.

    29 min

  3. 17 Jun

    E13: AI to Cure (Part 3) - Hacking Our Brains

    In this episode we attempt to uncover how AI is transforming the human mind, from decoding thoughts to rewriting emotions. Imagine a future where your dreams, memories, and even your emotional states are not private. We delve into the mind-bending capabilities of cutting-edge AI that’s learning to read, modify, and potentially control our inner worlds. From neural implants that detect and influence anxiety to machine-designed neurons that communicate directly with our brains, the boundary between science fiction and reality is vanishing fast.

    34 min

  4. 9 Jun

    E12: AI to Cure (Part 2) – Drugs and Digital Twins

    In this episode Ross and Sandy delve into the applications of AI in biology, drug discovery, and clinical trials, highlighting the potential of AI to revolutionize the healthcare industry. It explores the role of AI in drug design, protein modelling, gene editing, and cancer vaccines, as well as the challenges and opportunities in clinical trials and drug approval. The conversation delves into the concept of digital twins and their application in healthcare, particularly in simulating human organs and clinical trial design. It also explores the transformative potential of digital twins for rare diseases and the ethical implications of using AI in healthcare. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the impact of AI on biology and the need for responsible decision-making.

    51 min

  5. 31 May

    E10.2: Novabiotics and the NE Ecosystem - The Deborah O'Neil Interview

    In part 2 of this episode, Ross and Sandy continue their conversation with Dr. Deborah O'Neill where we discusses her leadership in the biotech industry, the challenges in biotech infrastructure, the economic impact of life sciences, regional investment and opportunities, and creative problem solving in the industry.

    29 min

  6. 29 May

    E10.1: NovaBiotics and the NE Ecosystem - The Deborah O'Neil Interview

    In this episode, join Ross and Sandy in discussion with Dr. Deborah O'Neill, CEO of NovaBiotics. Released in two parts, in this first part of the interview Deborah discusses her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, sharing insights into the science and story behind the formation of NovaBiotics. We hear about the fascinating work they are doing to combat microbial resistance and the potential impact of their developments for cystic fibrosis patients. Throughout this episode she highlights the importance of place, Aberdeen in the North East of Scotland, but we will dig deeper into this part of the story in part 2. For now we focus on the science and the biology. Enjoy!

    27 min

  7. 20 May

    E9: AI to Cure: Saving Lives or Sacking Staff?

    In this episode, the principal themes revolve around the application of AI in healthcare, focusing on efficiency, productivity, and patient care. The discussion also delves into the concept of virtual hospitals, the impact of AI on radiology imaging, and its role in emergency services.

    28 min

  8. 13 May

    E8: Aberdeen's Half-mad Scientists and the birth of MRI

    In this episode Ross and Sandy explore the history and impact of MRI technology, highlighting its development in Scotland and its global significance. It delves into the challenges and breakthroughs in medical imaging, emphasising the contributions of Scottish scientists and the commercial impact of their innovations.

    29 min
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About

The Long Game is a podcast that demystifies the science shaping our lives, and explores how great ideas built in Scotland become real-world medicines, devices, and companies at the cutting edge of life sciences.

Information

  • Creator
    Sandy & Ross
  • Years Active
    2k
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Sandy & Ross