Biotech Bytes: Conversations with Biotechnology / Pharmaceutical IT Leaders

Steve Swan

Welcome to the Biotech Bytes podcast, where we sit down with Biotech and Pharma IT leaders to learn what's working in our industry.Steven Swan is the CEO of The Swan Group LLC. He has 20 years of experience working with companies and individuals to make long-term matches. Focusing on Information technology within the Biotech and Pharmaceutical industries has allowed The Swan Group to become a valued partner to many companies. Staying in constant contact with the marketplace and its trends allow Steve to add valued insight to every conversation. Whether salary levels, technology trends or where the market is heading Steve knows what is important to both the small and large companies.Tune in every month to hear how Biotech and Pharma IT leaders are preparing for the future and winning today.

  1. DEC 23

    A Year of Biotech Bytes: The Stories, Lessons, and Laughs Behind the Mic

    A Year of Biotech Bytes: Reflections, Stories, and Honest Moments #biotechbytes #biotechpodcast #behindthemic This episode is a look back at the year, the lessons we learned, and the moments that shaped Biotech Bytes. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ I’m joined by Mary Louise Smith, the voice, support, and good energy behind every episode. She’s the person many listeners never see, yet she’s a major part of why this podcast runs the way it does.  We talk about how Biotech Bytes really started, why simple conversations often lead to the best ideas, and how AI can help us focus on the work that matters most. Mary also shares what leadership looks like behind the scenes and a few personal stories that shaped our year, including our shared love for chocolate. If you’ve listened this year, thank you for being part of this community. Let us know what topics or guests you want to hear in the new year. Links from this episode: Get to know more about Bill Wallace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamwallace2Learn more about Intercept Pharmaceuticals:https://www.interceptpharma.com 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/  Website:  https://swangroup.net/    ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys ============================= #biotechbytes #biotechpodcast #behindthemic #leadershipstories #aiinworkplace #humanconnection A Year of Biotech Bytes: The Stories, Lessons, and Laughs Behind the Mic

    29 min
  2. DEC 4

    How AI is Shaping the Future: The Rise of The Bionic Professional with Bill Wallace

    How AI is Shaping the Future: The Rise of The Bionic Professional with Bill Wallace #aitechnology #futureofwork #bionicprofessional  Step into the exciting world where AI is transforming the way we work and the very nature of our professions. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/  In this episode, I’m joined by Bill Wallace, Chief Information Officer at Intercept Pharmaceuticals, as we explore how AI is reshaping industries, and the rise of the bionic professional. Together, we dive deep into how biotechnology, AI, and professionals can work hand-in-hand to create smarter, more efficient workplaces. From the advancements in biotechnology to AI’s integration into daily business operations, discover the potential for professionals to become bionic, enhanced by technology for maximum productivity and innovation. Bill shares his insights on AI’s current role in business, and what the future holds for the professionals who embrace these changes. Unlock valuable perspectives and stay ahead of the curve with this in-depth conversation about the future of work and AI’s growing impact on our professional lives. Links from this episode: Get to know more about Bill Wallace: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamwallace2 Learn more about Intercept Pharmaceuticals:https://www.interceptpharma.com🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/  Website:  https://swangroup.net/    ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU  ============================= #aitechnology #futureofwork #bionicprofessional #aiworkforce #aiimpact #techinterviews How AI is Shaping the Future: The Rise of The Bionic Professional with Bill Wallace

    43 min
  3. NOV 13

    How AI Is Accelerating Drug Discovery | Smbat Rafayelyan (Bioneex CEO)

    AI in Drug Discovery | #aidrugdiscovery #biotechinnovation #medicalinnovation Amid a rapidly changing biotech landscape, AI is transforming how we discover and develop new medicines. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/  In this episode, I sit down with Smbat Rafayelyan, founder and CEO of Bioneex, a platform that connects early-stage biotech innovators with investors and pharma companies using AI-driven insights. He shares his journey from big pharma to entrepreneurship and how his team is reshaping drug discovery. We explore how personalized large language models are being applied in biotech, the role of data integration in connecting biotech, pharma, and investors, and why China’s biotech ecosystem is fueling a surge of innovation. ✅ How personalized AI models improve drug discovery and evaluation ✅ The role of data integration in connecting biotech, pharma, and investors ✅ Global opportunities, including China’s emerging biotech sector If you’ve ever wondered how AI is making sense of scientific data chaos, this episode is a must-watch. Links from this episode: ✅ Get to know more about Smbat Rafayelyan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-smbat-rafayelyan/?originalSubdomain=de  ✅ Learn more about Bioneex: https://bioneex.com 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/  Website:  https://swangroup.net/    ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU  =================================  #aidrugdiscovery #biotechinnovation #pharmainsights #aiinhealthcare #futureofmedicine #medicalinnovation How AI Is Accelerating Drug Discovery | Smbat Rafayelyan (Bioneex CEO)

    38 min
  4. OCT 23

    Mastering Recruiting: Why Building Genuine Relationships Will Always Matter

    Mastering Recruiting: Why Building Genuine Relationships Will Always Matter #recruiting #executiverecruiting #talentacquisition  In this interview with Janelle Razzino, we get deep into the core of successful recruiting, building genuine relationships. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/  While the landscape of recruiting has changed, the value of human connection remains paramount. Janelle shares her insights on why recruiting is all about people, how relationships shape the hiring process, and how understanding others can lead to hiring success. You’ll learn: How recruiting has evolved over time and why relationships are still key The importance of building trust in the hiring process The role of AI in recruitment and how it complements human judgment Strategies for leaders and HR professionals to enhance their recruiting efforts Whether you're a recruiter, HR professional, or someone looking to improve your hiring processes, this video will provide valuable insights for better recruitment. ✅ Get to know more about Janelle Razzino:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/janellerazzino  ✅ Learn more about Razzino Associates, Inc.: http://www.razzinoassociates.com 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/  Website:  https://swangroup.net/    ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQN6X206A94  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM  ================================= #recruiting #executiverecruiting #talentacquisition #recruitmenttips #hiringstrategies #humanresources

    49 min
  5. OCT 2

    AI & Low-Code: The Future of Biotech IT Leadership | Kevin Dushney

    AI & Low-Code Transformation in Biotech IT #biotechit #AIrevolution #lowcodetechnology In this episode, Kevin Dushney, a seasoned CIO with over eight biotech companies under his belt, shares invaluable insights into the rapidly changing landscape of biotech IT. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/ With the rising impact of AI and low-code tools, small biotech teams can now deliver more than ever before. Kevin discusses how these tools are reshaping workflows and how fractional CIOs are transforming leadership models. From the challenges of compliance to the hype around AI, Kevin cuts through the noise and breaks down what’s real, what’s useful, and what’s not. Tune in to hear practical strategies and discover what’s truly happening behind the scenes in biotech IT. Links from this episode: ✅ Get to know more about Kevin Dushney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevindushney  🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/  Website:  https://swangroup.net/    ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys ============================= #biotechit #airevolution #lowcodetechnology #biotechleadership #fractionalcio #aitools AI & Low-Code: The Future of Biotech IT Leadership | Kevin Dushney

    41 min
  6. SEP 11

    How IT Can Make or Break Your Biotech IPO with Nam Doan

    How IT Can Make or Break Your Biotech IPO with Nam Doan | Essential Tips for Small Biotech Companies #biotechit #biotechstartup #itleadership  In this episode, we sit down with Nam Doan, a seasoned IT leader who has worked with several biotech companies at critical moments, including before, during, and after they’ve gone public. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/  He shares his insights on the role IT plays in ensuring IPO readiness, building strong data systems, and balancing speed with compliance in the highly regulated biotech industry. Unlock the secrets to creating smart IT systems that can set your biotech company up for success. Learn why data quality matters more than you think, how poor systems can derail your IPO, and why strong IT leadership is essential for a smooth transition.  We also dive into AI, cybersecurity, and how small biotech companies can protect their data from becoming a liability. Whether you're in biotech or planning to start a new company, this conversation will give you valuable insights into how to build a strong IT foundation. Links from this episode: ✅ Get to know more about Nam Doan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ndoanhuy   🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/  Website:  https://swangroup.net/    🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQN6X206A94  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM  #biotechit #biotechstartup #itleadership #dataquality #iporeadiness #aiinbiotech

    47 min
  7. AUG 21

    AI Leadership Vs Automation: The 4 L’s Every Modern Manager Must Know with Praveen Kamsetti

    How AI Is Reshaping Leadership: The 4 L’s Framework Explained with Praveen Kamsetti #aileadership #empatheticleadership #futureofwork In this episode, Praveen Kamsetti breaks down how AI is transforming leadership, accountability, and business decisions. With over 20 years of experience in IT, Praveen shares practical insights on applying empathy in an automated world. Please visit our website to get more information: https://swangroup.net/  He explains his Four L’s of leadership, a model he’s used to help teams navigate uncertainty and transformation. From human-in-the-loop systems to real challenges like poor data quality, this conversation focuses on what it takes to lead in a tech-driven world while keeping the human element alive. We also cover key themes like leadership in AI, data governance, ethical implementation, and why some AI projects fail. If you care about the future of responsible AI and leading with empathy, this is for you. 🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/  Website:  https://swangroup.net/    ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EzJ1F_6pg  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=be8szNVFrNk  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Be6WEEy2JM  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys ============================= #aileadership #ethicalai #techmanagement #empatheticleadership #futureofwork #humancenteredtech

    40 min
  8. JUL 31

    The Human Side Of Human Resources | Traci Chernoff On Fixing HR, AI & Candidate Experience

    HR isn’t just about policies, metrics, or compliance, it’s about people. When that gets lost, the whole system starts to crack. In this episode, I talk with Traci Chernoff, host of Bringing the Human Back to Human Resources podcast and Director of Employee Engagement at Legion Technologies. She’s spent over a decade shaping how HR impacts not just hiring but retention, morale, and long-term business strategy.  We get into the reality of mis-hires, the true cost of poor candidate experience, and how companies sometimes lose their way chasing the wrong metrics. And, we talk about how AI fits into all of this without replacing what matters most: the human connection. This one’s packed with thoughtful takes and real-world insights from someone who’s lived every side of HR. Give it a listen, especially if you're hiring, building teams, or just trying to understand the real role HR plays. Specifically, this episode highlights the following themes: The long-term impact of candidate experience on employee retentionWhere HR metrics go wrong and how to actually use themWhy AI should enhance, not replace, human roles in recruitingLinks from this episode: Get to know more about Steven Swan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swangroupGet to know more about Traci Chernoff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hrtraciVisit her site for podcast episodes, resources, and HR insights: https://hrtraci.comCheck out Legion Technologies: https://legion.co 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬. https://www.youtube.com/@Biotech_Bytes/?sub_confirmation=1  🔗 Stay Connected With Us. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-swan-group/  Website:  https://swangroup.net/    ============================= 🎬Suggested videos for you: ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF7iwNZiIis  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NQN6X206A94  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWXIIe66-kI  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqpB3pGywkU  ▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9QyuG6p3Ys ============================= #humanresources #candidateexperience #employeeengagement #hrmetrics #tracichernoff #recruitmentstrategy

    54 min
5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Biotech Bytes podcast, where we sit down with Biotech and Pharma IT leaders to learn what's working in our industry.Steven Swan is the CEO of The Swan Group LLC. He has 20 years of experience working with companies and individuals to make long-term matches. Focusing on Information technology within the Biotech and Pharmaceutical industries has allowed The Swan Group to become a valued partner to many companies. Staying in constant contact with the marketplace and its trends allow Steve to add valued insight to every conversation. Whether salary levels, technology trends or where the market is heading Steve knows what is important to both the small and large companies.Tune in every month to hear how Biotech and Pharma IT leaders are preparing for the future and winning today.