"Great Science Doesn't Sell Itself": How to navigate the challenges of intimate product testing in an unregulated market

In this episode, we talk to Pam Miles, founder of Apothercare, the first company to conduct product testing on the vaginal microbiome.

Pam candidly shares her entrepreneurial journey in the femtech space, describing how Apothercare evolved from a personal project making cannabis-based products for menstrual pain relief to a scientific venture focused on vaginal health.

Pam recounts the challenges of navigating a nascent industry, including difficulties in securing funding and partnerships with academic institutions due to cannabis's legal status.

She provides insights into the surprising lack of testing requirements for intimate care products and Apothercare's mission to change that.

The conversation dives deep into the realities of startup life, with Pam offering a refreshingly honest perspective on the struggles of fundraising, especially in the femtech space. She shares her experiences with accelerators, pitching to venture capitalists, and the importance of having a strong support system.

Pam's journey highlights the perseverance required in pushing scientific boundaries and creating consumer demand for safer products. Her story serves as both inspiration and a reality check for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for financial backup and realistic expectations when embarking on a startup journey.

The episode concludes with a powerful message about the importance of honesty and mutual support within the founder ecosystem, reminding listeners of the challenges and rewards of being a visionary in an emerging field.