BIO from the BAYOU: Build Your Biotech Network with Key Opinion Leaders and Investors

James Zanewicz
  • 5.0 (11)
  • LIFE SCIENCES
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Are you struggling to find investors, funding, collaborators, and strategic connections in the ever-changing world of biotech? This show empowers biotech leaders with the tools, assets, and expertise to improve healthcare outcomes. Listen to “Bio from the Bayou” to learn how to: - Expand your network - Advance your product line - Make your company thrive With over two decades of experience in biotech and business development each, hosts James Zanewicz and Elaine Hamm (from Tulane University School of Medicine) talk with  their friends from the Gulf South and beyond to offer advice on networking, communication, and innovation, as well as unprecedented access to interviews with key opinion leaders in biotech. Every Wednesday, tune in to hear 15–20-minute episodes centered around solving biotech’s greatest challenges. If you’re ready to take the necessary steps towards success, start with fan-favorite Episode 58: Top Ways to Build Your Network as an Introvert in Biotech.

  1. 23H AGO

    Episode 107: How Hearing Loss Research Is Shaping the Future of Neurodegenerative Health

    What if preventing hearing loss could also help prevent dementia and other aging-related diseases? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, speaks with Celia Belline, Co-Founder and CEO of Cilcare, a biotech company pioneering therapies and analytics for hearing disorders. Celia shares how her company evolved from early research roots into a global leader tackling the connection between auditory health and cognitive decline. From building a business in a niche market to striking a major partnership with Shionogi, she reveals what it takes to innovate in an underexplored — yet crucial — area of biotech. In this episode, you'll learn: How hearing loss research offers powerful insights into preventing dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. Why Cilcare built a unique three-part model combining external innovation, therapeutics, and auditory analytics. Lessons from taking bold risks in an emerging field — and advice for founders on building partnerships that last. Tune in to discover how addressing hearing loss today could change the future of aging and brain health. Links: Connect with Celia Belline and check out Cilcare. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Sylvie Pucheu, PhD, and Marie-Pierre Pasdelou, PharmD, the other co-founders of Cilcare. Check out Sanofi and Shionogi. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

  2. OCT 1

    Episode 106: The Story Behind BIO on the BAYOU 2025 – Building the Gulf South Biotech Hub

    What makes the Gulf South one of the most exciting—and overlooked—regions for biotech innovation? In this special episode, Elaine Hamm, PhD (Tulane Medicine), Patrick Reed, RTTP (Auburn University), and Marcus Brown, PhD (LSU Health) come together to explore the origins, growth, and future of BIO on the BAYOU, the preeminent event showcasing biotech across the Gulf South. From its beginnings as a collaboration between Tulane and LSU, to its expansion into a regional destination that attracts universities, startups, investors, and global partners, this conversation dives into why BIO on the BAYOU has become a must-attend for biotech leaders (returning October 28 & 29, 2025). In this episode, you’ll learn: How BIO on the BAYOU grew from a local idea to a marquee conference drawing national and international attention. Why the Gulf South’s overlooked science, startups, and universities are finding their spotlight through this event. The unique mix of panels, pitches, partnering, and New Orleans-style networking that sets BIO on the BAYOU apart. Whether you’re a startup founder, an investor, or simply curious about the future of Gulf South biotech, this episode gives you a front-row seat to the story behind BIO on the BAYOU 2025. Links: Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Patrick Reed, RTTP, and learn about Auburn University. Connect with Marcus Brown, PhD, MBA, and learn about LSU Health New Orleans. Check out the New Orleans BioInnovation Center (NOBIC) and check out their BioChallenge 2025. Check out The Bullpen and PartneringONE. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

  3. SEP 24

    Episode 105: Women’s Health, Clinical Trials, and Changing the System in Biotech Innovation

    How can we fix a healthcare system that has too often overlooked women? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, speaks with Georgie Kovacs, MBA, Founder and CEO of Fempower Health, about her mission to empower women through evidence-based information and community support. Georgie shares her journey from personal experience with endometriosis to building a trusted platform that connects women with leading experts. Together, Elaine and Georgie dig into the history—and ongoing challenges—of women’s inclusion in clinical trials, the gaps in data that still shape care today, and why patient advocacy and systemic change are more critical than ever. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why women were historically excluded from clinical trials—and the consequences still felt today. How patient advocacy, informed consent, and inclusion can reshape women’s healthcare. What biotech leaders, clinicians, and investors must consider when designing studies and funding women’s health innovations. Tune in to hear Georgie’s vision for transforming women’s health from fragmented care into informed, empowered, and equitable solutions. Links: Connect with Georgie Kovacs, MBA, and check out Fempower Health. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Check out the Endometriosis Working Group and take the survey. Learn more about the Tulane Center of Excellence in Sex-Based Precision Medicine. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

  4. SEP 17

    Episode 104: Key Lessons from North Carolina’s Thriving Biotech Startup Ecosystem

    How do you turn world-class science into sustainable biotech companies that grow both patients’ futures and local economies? In this episode, host James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, speaks with Dave Ousterout, PhD, Co-Founder and General Partner of Cape Fear BioCapital. Drawing from his journey as a biotech entrepreneur and now investor, Dave shares how his team is working to transform North Carolina’s biotech ecosystem—filling funding gaps, building strong teams, and helping startups move from promising science to impactful medicines. In this episode, you’ll discover: The key lessons Dave learned as a biotech founder and how they shape his investment strategy today. Why Cape Fear BioCapital focuses on “building, not just picking” companies in North Carolina. What investors want to see from early-stage biotech startups and how founders can prepare to meet those expectations. Tune in to learn how Cape Fear BioCapital is fueling innovation and what biotech leaders everywhere can take away from their approach. Links: Connect with Dave Ousterout, PhD, and check out Cape Fear BioCapital. Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Ed Field, MBA, Jimmy Melton, MHA, and Paul Garofolo. Learn more about Locus Biosciences, Inceptor Bio, Moore Strategic Ventures, G1 Therapeutics, Thoracic Innovations, TEN63 Therapeutics, and Boehringer Ingelheim. Listen to our previous episode with Travis Manasco. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

  5. SEP 10

    Episode 103: A Board Member’s Perspective on Biotech Leadership and Strategy

    What do biotech boards want to see in a CEO—and what mistakes can quickly derail a company’s success? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Mark Corrigan, MD, one of the most experienced and respected leaders in the biotech industry. From shaping the development of blockbuster drugs to serving as CEO and board member for multiple companies, Mark has a unique perspective on the intersection of science, leadership, and strategy. He shares candid insights on what makes a strong CEO, the role boards should (and shouldn’t) play, and how to navigate today’s tough financing environment without losing sight of the mission. In this episode, you’ll learn: The key qualities that boards value most in biotech CEOs—and the red flags that raise concerns. Why humility, adaptability, and a clear value proposition are essential traits for leadership. How boards and CEOs can partner effectively when money is tight and timelines are long. Tune in to gain board-level insights into biotech leadership and decision-making that can help you shape your own path forward. Links: Connect with Mark Corrigan, MD, and check out Wave Life Sciences, AstronauTx, Silver Creek Pharmaceuticals, Ceretype Neuromedicine, and Cadenza Bio. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Listen to our previous episode on Building Biotech Boards. Check out The California Honeydrops and Willamette Valley Pinot. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

  6. SEP 3

    Episode 102: Building Patient-Centered Biotech Deals for a Stronger Future in Healthcare

    How can healthcare investment banking put patients—not just profits—at the center of biotech deals? In this episode, host James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, speaks with Sam Libby, President and Managing Director of TCB Capital Advisors. Drawing from more than $20 billion in transactions across therapeutics, diagnostics, and digital health, Sam explains how TCB’s unique advisory model partners with companies before and after deals close. From growing up with therapist parents to founding a merchant bank, Sam shares how personal values and professional experience can come together to shape smarter strategies for healthcare innovation. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why patient-centered thinking belongs at the core of investment strategy. Common mistakes healthcare startups make when pitching to investors—and how to avoid them. The critical role of clinical data, mission alignment, and timing in building sustainable biotech companies. Tune in to learn how to navigate healthcare investments with purpose and ensure your biotech mission makes a lasting impact. Links: Connect with Sam Libby, and check out TCB Capital Advisors. Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Learn more about Clairity and Informuta. Listen to our previous episode on Drug Pricing and Accessibility. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

  7. AUG 27

    Episode 101: Biotech Strategy and Creative Fundraising for Rare Disease Drug Development

    How can biotech leaders navigate the complexities of neurodegenerative research while tackling today’s funding challenges? In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, welcomes Vikas Sharma, PhD, Chief Business Officer at QurAlis, for an insightful conversation on innovation, leadership, and fundraising in the biotech sector. Drawing from his extensive experience with ALS and neurodegeneration research, Vikas shares lessons on balancing science with business, navigating board dynamics, and finding creative approaches to raise capital. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why genetic insights are reshaping neurodegenerative research. How to creatively approach funding when investors are focused on lower-risk, later-stage opportunities. Practical strategies for balancing science, investors, and board relationships to drive biotech success. Tune in to gain actionable strategies and leadership lessons that can help you move your biotech forward with confidence. Links: Connect with Vikas Sharma, PhD, and check out QurAlis. Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with Jason Adair, MBA, and Kevin Eggan, PhD. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

  8. AUG 20

    Episode 100: Celebrating 100 Episodes of BIO from the BAYOU – Building a Biotech Community

    How did a podcast that started as a simple experiment become a trusted voice in biotech conversations? In this special 100th episode, co-hosts Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, take a step back to reflect on the BIO from the BAYOU journey. From the early days of experimenting with format to connecting with some of the most influential voices in biotech, they share behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned, and how the podcast has evolved into a platform that bridges science, business, and storytelling. In this episode, you’ll hear: The origins of BIO from the BAYOU and how it found its unique voice in the biotech landscape. Memorable moments, favorite guest insights, and the biggest lessons learned over 100 episodes. A look ahead at what’s next for the podcast — including an exciting update from James at the end of the episode. Join us in celebrating 100 episodes of conversation, connection, and community in biotech — and get ready for what’s to come! Links: Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine. Connect with other hosts Patrick Reed, RTTP, Sharon Courtney, Nicole Honoree, RTTP, Kaneisha Akinpelumi, and Carolyn Scofield, MPS. Connect with Adam Goodcoff, DO, Neil Greene, Tari Suprapto, PhD, James McLachlan, PhD, Travis Manasco, MD, Mike Rondelli, JD, MBA, Tre Braquet, Kylie Hovey, and Lee Hamm, MD. Learn more about Connect, The Study, and EXTRA! Listen to our previous episodes mentioned - linked here. Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer. Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025. Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast. Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.

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Are you struggling to find investors, funding, collaborators, and strategic connections in the ever-changing world of biotech? This show empowers biotech leaders with the tools, assets, and expertise to improve healthcare outcomes. Listen to “Bio from the Bayou” to learn how to: - Expand your network - Advance your product line - Make your company thrive With over two decades of experience in biotech and business development each, hosts James Zanewicz and Elaine Hamm (from Tulane University School of Medicine) talk with  their friends from the Gulf South and beyond to offer advice on networking, communication, and innovation, as well as unprecedented access to interviews with key opinion leaders in biotech. Every Wednesday, tune in to hear 15–20-minute episodes centered around solving biotech’s greatest challenges. If you’re ready to take the necessary steps towards success, start with fan-favorite Episode 58: Top Ways to Build Your Network as an Introvert in Biotech.

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