Water Cooler Podcast

Richard Steinfeld
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Welcome to The Water Cooler Podcast, a candid look at the life science world. In each podcast, the host Richard Steinfeld talks with the people who make this industry move: scientists, executives, regulators, investors, clinicians, and biostats pros. Expect bold conversations on the state of science, funding pressures, the talent market, staffing do’s and don’ts, and the messy work that turns ideas into therapies and tools. Come for the unfiltered chat, leave with an insight you can use.

Episodes

  1. Jul 21

    "74% of drug rejections were never about science."

    Richard speaks with clinical trial manager Sai Tharuni Kethamreddy about how manufacturing quality problems can delay or stop promising drugs, even when the science and clinical data are strong. They discuss FDA rejections, quality debt, batch consistency, and ways biotech leaders can reduce manufacturing risk before submission. Richard also dedicates the episode to a close friend and mentor who recently passed away.

    "74% of drug rejections were never about science."

  2. May 29

    Lisa Kaufman and I talk Quality

    In this episode, Richard Steinfeld talks with Lisa Kaufman about why quality matters in pharma and biotech. Lisa shares how her career moved from clinical operations into quality compliance, and why doing things right early can protect patients, prevent costly delays, and keep clinical programs moving. Her message is simple: quality is not red tape. It is what helps companies avoid bigger problems later.

    Lisa Kaufman and I talk Quality

  3. May 14

    Episode 8 conversation with Paul Ivsin

    In this episode, Paul Ivsin, a seasoned expert in clinical trial patient recruitment, shares insights on common pitfalls, effective planning, and industry trends. Learn how sponsors can improve enrollment success and navigate the complexities of patient recruitment.

    Episode 8 conversation with Paul Ivsin

  4. Apr 7

    Episode 7 with Guest Suzanne Vyvoda "Why Clinical Trials Break"

    Why Clinical Trials Break and How to Spot the Early Signs In this episode, Suzanne Vyvoda shares expert insights into why clinical trials often encounter delays and budget overruns, and how sponsors can identify signals early to get ahead of issues. Whether you're new to clinical research or a seasoned professional, these practical tips can help you improve trial management and avoid costly setbacks.Key Topics: The common operational causes of clinical trial delaysHow to interpret early signals that a trial is falling off trackThe importance of realistic assumptions in trial planningThe role of data dashboards in monitoring trial healthNon-data signs of trouble, like site frustration and slow decision-makingStrategic steps before the first patient is enrolled to prevent issuesThe critical role of operational strategy in trial success

    Episode 7 with Guest Suzanne Vyvoda "Why Clinical Trials Break"

  5. Mar 17

    Episode 6 my guest Niharika Kamat

    This episode is about how small biotechs should manage CROs and vendors more strategically. Niharika’s main point is that outsourcing is not hands off. Sponsors still need strong oversight, better budget transparency, and clear goals with vendors. She also says AI can improve things like site selection, reporting, and monitoring support, but it cannot replace human judgment in clinical operations.

    Episode 6 my guest Niharika Kamat

  6. Feb 23

    Episode 5 with Guest Arpit Chokshi

    In this episode, Richard Steinfeld interviews Arpit Chokshi, who shares his experiences and challenges in the job market, particularly in the life sciences sector. Arpit discusses the emotional toll of job searching, the surprising difficulties in finding opportunities, and the impact of applicant tracking systems on job applications. He emphasizes the importance of networking, tailoring resumes, and learning from rejections while providing valuable insights for others in similar situations.

    Episode 5 with Guest Arpit Chokshi

  7. Feb 7

    Episode 4 with special guest Suresh Dheerendra

    In this episode, Richard Steinfeld interviews Suresh Dheerendra, Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations at Neuron 23. They discuss the complexities of clinical trials, focusing on patient enrollment, retention challenges, and the importance of site activation. Suresh shares insights on the multifaceted nature of enrollment risks, the significance of building relationships with sites, and the innovative strategies being employed to enhance patient engagement and retention. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of technology in clinical operations and the need for companies to adapt to new advancements.

    Episode 4 with special guest Suresh Dheerendra

  8. Jan 19

    Episode 3 with special guest David Tsai

    I sat down with David Tsai for a es first post, and how it has grown since then. I have known David since I began my own journey, and he has become a good friend. His spirit and kindness come through clearly in this conversation. David is a gem in the life sciences space, and rooting for his success is easy. If you enjoy the conversation, I hope you will give him a like and follow him on LinkedIn.

    Episode 3 with special guest David Tsai

  9. Jan 6

    The attack on Science and Vaccines

    Vaccines are facing renewed skepticism, and the consequences are showing up in real time. In this episode, we break down why vaccines have come under attack, how misinformation spreads, and why declining vaccination rates are linked to outbreaks of preventable illnesses like measles and whooping cough. We also discuss the COVID 19 vaccine, how the conversation became polarized, and what it means for personal health and community protection.

  10. Jan 5

    Water Cooler Podcast Episode 1

    The Water Cooler Podcast is real talk about life science. Host Richard Steinfeld sits with scientists, executives, regulators, investors, clinicians, and biostats pros to unpack how work really gets done. Clear stories, useful takeaways, zero fluff.

  • 10 Episodes

About

Welcome to The Water Cooler Podcast, a candid look at the life science world. In each podcast, the host Richard Steinfeld talks with the people who make this industry move: scientists, executives, regulators, investors, clinicians, and biostats pros. Expect bold conversations on the state of science, funding pressures, the talent market, staffing do’s and don’ts, and the messy work that turns ideas into therapies and tools. Come for the unfiltered chat, leave with an insight you can use.

Information

  • Creator
    Richard Steinfeld
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Richard Steinfeld
  • Show Website
    Water Cooler Podcast