Oncology Voice Network (OVN) Podcast

Oncology Voice Network

Oncology Voice Network (OVN) Podcast brings the real-world voices of oncology drug development to life. Hosted by Dr. Kirk Shepard and Dr. Ramin Farhood, the series features candid conversations with leaders and innovators across the oncology ecosystem. Each episode explores real-world experiences, lessons learned, bold ideas, challenges, and best practices and solutions from pharmaceutical executives, academic researchers, patients, patient advocates, and innovation partners—connecting the voices that drive oncology drug development forward. At its core, the show reflects the mission of the Oncology Voice Network: breaking silos, amplifying voices, and fostering cross-functional collaboration across all disciplines to reshape oncology drug development. Whether you’re in pharmaceuticals, biotech, healthcare, or advocacy, this podcast offers insights and connections to help drive progress across the field.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    Building Winning Oncology Teams That Last

    How do leading pharma and biotech teams keep up with oncology’s relentless pace? In this episode of the Oncology Voice Network, Dr. Kirk Shepard sits down with Spencer Weneck and Christian Camp to break down what truly makes an oncology organization resilient, competitive, and future-ready. Hear firsthand insights into today’s most urgent challenges: navigating the shift from an employer to a candidate-driven market, adapting to patent cliffs and M&A waves, and outsmarting the industry’s unparalleled war for talent. Discover why talent development, cultural fit, and cross-functional leadership are make-or-break factors—and why so many companies lose their way by ignoring them. Get inspired by real-life examples, honest lessons from failure, and a deep dive into how shared learning environments like OVN are resetting industry standards. Listen now and future-proof your oncology team. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetwork LinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetwork X @OncologyVoiceNetwork Presented by Oncology Voice Network www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    32 min

  2. May 26

    The Role of Field Medical in Advancing Cancer Treatment

    What does it take to transform scientific discovery into real-world cancer care? Explore the critical, yet often misunderstood, role of field medical professionals in oncology. In this episode of the Oncology Voice Network Podcast, Host Dr. Kirk Shepard welcomes Robin Winter-Sperry, a trailblazer, advocate, and chapter co-author in the Voices of Oncology book. Together, they dive into the evolution of field medical teams, revealing how scientific exchange, mentorship, and communication lead to better patient outcomes. Robin shares her unique journey from clinical practice to industry leadership, explaining how field medical professionals bridge the gap between research and practice, bringing valuable insights from the healthcare community back to pharma and biotech. The conversation covers how collaboration can break down, where critical information can sometimes get lost, and why recognizing and leveraging resident expertise is vital for progress. Discover fresh perspectives on how field medical shapes clinical practice, adapts to rapid technological change, and is poised for an impactful future—especially in an era of AI and patient empowerment.  Listen now and join the movement to elevate every voice in oncology. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetwork LinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetwork X @OncologyVoiceNetwork Presented by Oncology Voice Network www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min

  3. May 12

    Recruiting for Impact: Inside the Oncology Talent Market

    Think the best oncology leadership teams just happen? In this episode of the Oncology Voice Network podcast, host Dr. Kirk Shepard sits down with executive search leader Michael Pietrack for a candid exploration of what really fuels effective executive hiring in oncology drug development. Discover why time perception differences between candidates and hiring managers often derail the process, how the traditional "buyer and seller" interview dynamic actually works, and why so many companies end up hiring from the same limited pool—risking cultural homogeneity and stunted growth. Michael Pietrack shares how companies can avoid these pitfalls, the signals exec hiring sends to the marketplace, and why siloed decision-making holds organizations back. From must-know insights on evaluating leadership teams and structuring consensus interviews, to the real-world value of external recruiters and how oncology biotechs are outbidding big pharma for top talent, this episode is loaded with practical, industry-shaping advice. Listen now and join the conversation with the voices shaping the future of oncology. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetwork LinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetwork X @OncologyVoiceNetwork Presented by Oncology Voice Network www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    19 min

  4. Apr 28

    More Moments, More Memories: A Family’s Legacy in Oncology

    What does it take to advance cancer care—not just in the lab, but in real lives?  In this episode of the Oncology Voice Network Podcast, Host Dr. Kirk Shepard welcomes Christi Shaw and Shelley Shaw, sisters, industry leaders, and co-founders of the More Moments, More Memories Foundation. Inspired by personal loss and driven by empathy, the Shaw sisters share their intertwined journeys as executives, caregivers, and advocates determined to create more time and hope for families facing cancer. Hear how their mother and sister’s experiences led them to champion access to clinical trials, break down silos in oncology teams, and focus on patient-centered solutions. Discover the keys to successful launches, organizational alignment, and building meaningful partnerships with doctors, compliance, and advocacy groups. Plus, explore how AI and cross-collaboration are reshaping the future of oncology. Tune in for a moving, practical conversation on purpose-driven leadership, teamwork, and what it means to do “one good thing for a patient” every single day. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetwork LinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetwork X @OncologyVoiceNetwork Presented by Oncology Voice Network www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    37 min

  5. Apr 14

    Why Relationships Define Medical Affairs Leadership

    Ever wonder why some medical affairs professionals consistently rise to the top? In this episode of Oncology Voice Network podcast, host Dr. Kirk Shepard talks with Tom Caravela, whose three decades in life sciences and hundreds of placements have revealed what really moves careers forward in medical affairs—especially in the world of oncology. Explore how the Medical Science Liaison role has evolved from generalist to subject matter expert, why your network is as crucial as your scientific expertise, and the career advice you should never follow. Tom Caravela shares how developing intentional relationships, effective cross-functional communication, and a growth mindset can make the difference whether you’re leading, building teams, or charting the next step in your field medical career. Packed with actionable takeaways, book and podcast recommendations, and candid stories of both failures and breakthroughs, this is your roadmap for thriving in today’s high-stakes medical affairs landscape. Want to know how to stand out and make a lasting impact? Tune in to the voices shaping the future of oncology. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetwork LinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetwork X @OncologyVoiceNetwork Presented by Oncology Voice Network www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min

  6. Mar 31

    Breakthroughs in Oncology Drug Development with Dr. Roy Baynes

    How do world-changing cancer treatments go from concept to reality?  In this episode of the Oncology Voice Network Podcast, host Dr. Kirk Shepard welcomes Dr. Roy Baynes, the Chief Medical Officer of ICON Therapeutics and the architect behind the clinical strategy for Keytruda (pembrolizumab), one of the most transformative cancer therapies of our time. Listen as Dr. Baynes shares his personal journey from academia to industry, his leadership and collaboration philosophy, and the critical decisions that accelerated one drug to impact millions. He reveals how adaptive trials, bold partnerships, clear strategy, and relentless patient focus set new standards—not only for science, but for access and equity in cancer care. From lessons learned at Amgen, Gilead, and Merck, to navigating regulatory relationships and cross-functional teamwork, this episode is a masterclass in what it takes to drive rapid oncology innovation. Dr. Baynes also looks ahead to the future, sharing his optimism for breakthroughs, actionable insights for teams, and why patient-centered purpose should lead every step. Tune in and discover how strategy, leadership, and heart unite to change lives in oncology—listen now. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetwork LinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetwork X @OncologyVoiceNetwork Presented by Oncology Voice Network www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    28 min

  7. Mar 17

    The Power of Commercial Leadership in Oncology

    What does it mean to be the true “voice of commercial” in oncology, and why does it matter more than ever? In this episode of Oncology Voice Network Podcast, join Dr. Kirk Shepard as he welcomes Daniel Switzer, Head of U.S. Oncology at Daiichi Sankyo, for a revealing look inside the commercial engine that drives cancer innovation from the lab all the way to the patient. With two decades of leading launches, transformations, and cross-functional teams, Daniel Switzer shares his most pivotal moments, from high-stakes encounters with patients to standing ovations at ASCO Congress. Discover why commercial is about so much more than sales, how ethical responsibility and clear alignment can truly change outcomes, and what happens when teams get it wrong. Daniel Switzer discusses breaking down silos, building bridges with R&D, and the necessity of early, unified collaboration in launching life-changing therapies. Plus, hear why the Oncology Voice Network and industry-wide learning are the next frontiers in elevating patient care. Whether you're in pharma, research, or just passionate about innovation, this episode will reframe what commercial leadership means in today’s oncology world. Tune in now and get inspired to bridge the gaps that matter most. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetwork LinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetwork X @OncologyVoiceNetwork Presented by Oncology Voice Network www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min

  8. Mar 3

    Humans Beyond the Algorithm: Hiring for Oncology’s Future

    Is AI the answer or just another obstacle in hiring the talent that transforms cancer care? In this episode of Oncology Voice Network Podcast, Host Dr. Kirk Shepard welcomes Stacey Benefiel, PharmD, Head of Global Clinical and Medical Affairs at Canopy, for a candid exploration of what it really takes to build the future oncology workforce. With 25+ years across pharma and biotech, Stacey shares her personal journey through layoffs, hiring, and the challenge of finding the right fit. Together, they dig into how COVID, downsizing, financial pressures, and the rise of AI have turned talent search into a rollercoaster, creating “black holes” where great candidates disappear. Stacey explains why human judgment, empathy, and nuance can’t be replaced by tech, especially when every hiring decision ultimately impacts patients. Hear stories from the front lines, get real examples of the ups and downs of automation, and learn what responsible AI adoption should look like. In the age of AI, the human touch isn’t optional—it’s essential. Tune in now. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetwork LinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetwork X @OncologyVoiceNetwork Presented by Oncology Voice Network  www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min

  9. Feb 17

    How Cross-Functional Teams Reshape Cancer Care

    How does real innovation in cancer therapy begin? Step into the world of preclinical drug discovery, where every molecule—and every lesson—matters.  In this episode of Oncology Voice Network Podcast, Host Dr. Kirk Shepard sits down with Dr. Jay Fine, a renowned immunologist and President of R&D at Evolve Immune Therapeutics and a Forbes-published author in Voices of Oncology, for a candid look at how discovery truly connects to patient care.  Together, they explore how personal stories, cross-functional teamwork, and the willingness to share both successes and failures can reshape outcomes for cancer patients. Dr. Fine reflects on the human inspiration behind his decades of work, breaks the myth of the lone scientist by emphasizing the power of collaboration, and explains how preclinical data guides every step of a therapy’s path to patients. He also emphasizes the importance of open partnerships among pharma, biotech, payers, and patient advocates. Looking ahead, they discuss big ideas shaping the future, from data sharing and adaptive trials to more patient-centered strategies. Discover why a new era of shared innovation is essential to accelerating breakthroughs and ensuring no patient is left behind. Tune in now. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetworkLinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetworkX @OncologyVoiceNetworkPresented by Oncology Voice Network  www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    24 min

  10. Feb 3

    Trust, Transparency & Timelines: Advancing Cancer Care

    What happens when true experts break down walls to speed up cancer cures? In this episode of the Oncology Voice Network Podcast, host Dr. Kirk Shepard welcomes Rebecca Goldstein, VP of Strategy and Communications at OVN and a self-described “oncology lifer.” Dive into a raw, real-world conversation about the often-overlooked role of innovation partners in pushing oncology drug development forward. Rebecca shares her journey from the lab bench to shaping cross-sector collaboration, revealing what sets innovation partners apart from traditional service providers. She and Dr. Shepard explore why transparent and timely communication isn’t just nice-to-have—it’s essential for real progress. They break down the high cost of information silos, why trust is a two-way street, and how the OVN community is opening new doors for experts, manufacturers, and innovators to learn from each other. You’ll gain practical takeaways on building powerful, trust-based relationships that break through bureaucracy and accelerate patient impact, plus a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Voices of Oncology and how competition gave way to collaboration. Ready to see how a new culture of partnership can transform cancer drug development? Tune in and join the conversation. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetworkLinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetworkX @OncologyVoiceNetworkPresented by Oncology Voice Network  www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    25 min

  11. Jan 20

    Busting Silos: Building the Future of Oncology Drug Development

    What happens when the brightest minds in oncology drug development unite around a single goal: to break down silos and transform cancer care? In the premiere episode of the Oncology Voice Network Podcast, hosts Dr. Ramin Farhood and Dr. Kirk Shepard reveal the origins of the OVN movement and the inspiration behind their book, Voices of Oncology. Hear how interviewing 33 trailblazers, spanning pharma, biotech, advocacy, and academia, led to the creation of a living network designed to share best practices and accelerate innovation. Discover why collaboration is crucial, what unique challenges face oncology teams, and how open communication—across 200+ functions—can speed up drug development and deliver breakthroughs to patients faster. The hosts unpack the four pillars of successful teamwork, the critical role of external partners, and how patient involvement now reshapes every phase of the process. Tune in now and discover the real costs of siloed work, the art of constructive disagreement, and how leaders can foster cultures of synergy.  Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetworkLinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetworkX @OncologyVoiceNetworkPresented by Oncology Voice Network  www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    33 min

  12. Jan 5

    Welcome to Oncology Voice Network Podcast: Stories Driving Cancer Care

    Are you ready to hear how tomorrow’s cancer breakthroughs begin? Welcome to the Oncology Voice Network Podcast. On this show, hosts Dr. Kirk Shepard and Dr. Ramin Farhood unite influential voices from every corner of oncology drug development: clinical research, regulatory, safety, advocacy, commercial, and beyond. Dive into powerful, real stories that fuel change, and discover the bold ideas and lessons learned that propel innovation and deepen collaboration between disciplines. Each episode takes you beyond the pages of medical journals and the walls of conference rooms, revealing oncology’s human side — where passion, partnership, and empathy converge. From discovery to patient access, see how a chorus of expertise is changing the future of cancer care for patients and their families, one voice at a time. Subscribe now to Oncology Voice Network and join us at the front lines of oncology innovation. Follow Us Facebook @OncologyVoiceNetworkLinkedIn @OncologyVoiceNetworkX @OncologyVoiceNetworkPresented by Oncology Voice Network www.oncologyvoicenetwork.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1 min

Trailer

About

Oncology Voice Network (OVN) Podcast brings the real-world voices of oncology drug development to life. Hosted by Dr. Kirk Shepard and Dr. Ramin Farhood, the series features candid conversations with leaders and innovators across the oncology ecosystem. Each episode explores real-world experiences, lessons learned, bold ideas, challenges, and best practices and solutions from pharmaceutical executives, academic researchers, patients, patient advocates, and innovation partners—connecting the voices that drive oncology drug development forward. At its core, the show reflects the mission of the Oncology Voice Network: breaking silos, amplifying voices, and fostering cross-functional collaboration across all disciplines to reshape oncology drug development. Whether you’re in pharmaceuticals, biotech, healthcare, or advocacy, this podcast offers insights and connections to help drive progress across the field.

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