Beginner's Mind

Table of Contents

* Alasdair Milton: The Innovation Inflection Point: Why 70% of Cures Never Reach Patients

* Executive Coaching – Why Conferences Fail After the Handshake

* Meet Us at BIO International San Diego (June 22–25, 2026)

* The Latest Podcast Episodes

* Reading List for Entrepreneurs and Investors from Series A to IPO and beyond

* Quote of the Week

* Call for Speakers

* Support the Show to Help Grow the Ecosystem and Plant Trees

* Podcast Media Data - A Global Top 10% Show - #1 Deep Tech Show in 2025

* Community Partners

Alasdair Milton: The Innovation Inflection Point: Why 70% of Cures Never Reach Patients

Last fall, Alasdair Milton, PhD, looked straight into the microphone and delivered a line that has stayed with me ever since:“We’ve been doing precision medicine in lung cancer for decades — over two decades — and we’re still not getting it right.”

It wasn’t drama. It was diagnosis. The biggest failure in modern healthcare, he argued, isn’t science. It’s delivery.

I first met Alasdair and the KPMG U.S. Biopharma team in the crowded hallways at BIO International in Boston last year. The energy was unmistakable — everyone sensed the market was turning, but few had the full picture. We agreed to sit down again in Q4 2025 for a longer conversation on Beginner’s Mind. What followed was one of the most forward-looking episodes I’ve recorded.

Now, as BIO International returns to San Diego (June 22–25, 2026), the data has caught up with Alasdair’s analysis in real time. M&A is accelerating. The first wave of biotech IPOs is returning. Big Pharma is aggressively hunting assets to blunt a $200–300 billion patent cliff. China’s innovation pipeline has moved from footnote to strategic imperative. In other words, the inflection point Alasdair mapped out last fall is happening right now.

That is exactly why I’m writing this:

If you allocate capital, build companies, or shape strategy in life sciences, make it a priority to meet experts like Alasdair Milton and the full KPMG U.S. Life Sciences team in San Diego this June.

Here are the seven timeless insights from our conversation that have proven sharper than most 2026 forecasts — and why they make in-person conversations with Alasdair and his colleagues so valuable.

1. Science keeps marching forward no matter the macro chaos. (05:25)“Despite the turmoil,” Alasdair said, “the science keeps evolving… and that is always what gives me hope.” Tariffs, the war in Iran, and oil prices above $100 have injected friction into everything. Yet cell and gene therapies, in-vivo CAR-T, and multi-omics platforms continue to advance. The science did not pause.

2. The industry must shift from selling sickness to enabling lifelong wellness. (2:23:59)Biopharma’s current model — treat chronic disease after it appears — is structurally unsustainable. Alasdair called for preemptive health, risk prediction years earlier, and true prevention. The healthcare system was built for pills and mass markets, not personalized data-driven interventions. That delivery gap is why, even after decades of precision medicine, far too many patients still never receive the therapies they should.

3. China has moved from “catching up” to “redefining the map.” (1:43:20)From roughly 5 % to 33 % of the global monoclonal antibody pipeline in a decade. Alasdair flagged this eastward shift early. In 2026 the data shows he was, if anything, conservative. Western pharma is now actively licensing Chinese assets. The U.S. innovation crown is no longer guaranteed.

4. Capital has swung decisively toward discipline. (1:17:36)The post-COVID “sugar high” is over. Investors and corporate venture arms are laser-focused on the top 20 % of de-risked assets led by proven teams with scalable CMC and clear commercial theses. Alasdair called this exact pivot. We are living it now — M&A volume and value are surging as pharma regains leverage.

5. Translation is the new competitive moat. (56:32)Great science dies in quarterly portfolio reviews unless it can be explained in clear business terms. Alasdair — a trained cancer biologist who became a trusted advisor to global biopharma boards — is the archetype of the translator every company now needs. His team at KPMG operates like a boutique inside a Big Four firm (50:07): taking deep science and turning it into actionable strategy.

6. Careers (and companies) are never linear — resilience is the differentiator. (30:01)Born on a 400-person island off Scotland’s west coast, Alasdair built his career on “Scottish grit.” In 2007, just weeks after moving to Boston, his entire life-sciences team was shut down. “When one door closes,” he reflected, “another one opens… what felt like the end of the world became one of the best things that happened to me.” That mindset separates survivors from casualties in today’s market.

7. The next decade belongs to those who master both innovation and execution. (2:38:13)Precision medicine is no longer just a scientific question. It is a leadership, capital-allocation, and systems-design question. The leaders who win will be the ones who translate complex science into decisive strategy — exactly the skill set Alasdair and the KPMG precision and advanced therapies team bring to their clients every day.

These are not abstract points. They are the exact topics that will dominate the floor in San Diego.

Navigating 2026: Uncertainty and Unprecedented Opportunity

As we look at the world today, Alasdair’s insights are the perfect compass. Geopolitical headwinds—from the war in Iran and rising oil prices to new global tariffs—are injecting friction into global supply chains.

Yet, the science marches forward.

Will China continue to strengthen its grip on early-stage investment and pipeline volume?

Or will US powerhouses retain the global innovation crown?

Just weeks ago, Eli Lilly answered that question by doubling down on AI with a massive $2.75 billion collaboration with Insilico Medicine, perfectly complementing their recent Nvidia supercomputer partnership.

And let’s not discount Europe, where Jeito Capital just closed a record €1 billion ($1.2 billion) fund this month to back “plug-and-play” biotechs explicitly targeted for pharma acquisition.

Prepare for BIO International 2026

BIO International 2026 is expected to be even larger than last year’s record-breaking Boston event. More than 20,000 of the world’s sharpest minds in M&A, funding, product development, and science will gather under one roof. This is where the conversations that actually move capital and strategy happen — not in slides, but in the hallway, at the coffee station, and at the KPMG booth.

If you want to understand how the patent cliff is really being navigated, how China’s rise is reshaping licensing strategy, or how precision medicine can finally move from promise to delivery, the highest-ROI thing you can do is meet the people who are living these issues every day.

Start by watching (or re-watching) the full episode with Alasdair Milton below — it will sharpen your thinking and give you better questions when you’re on the ground. Then make it a priority to meet Alasdair and the KPMG U.S. Life Sciences team while you’re there.

Alasdair Milton and the KPMG U.S. Life Sciences team are precisely that caliber of expert. They advise the world’s largest biopharma and diagnostic companies on growth strategy, commercial due diligence, and advanced therapies. They translate the same science that excites researchers into the language that boards and investors actually act on.

Reach out to Alasdair directly on LinkedIn today — tell him you read this and you’ll be at BIO. He’s always happy to connect. These are the conversations that turn insight into real advantage.

The science is marching forward.The question is whether your network and your strategy are keeping pace.

See you in San Diego.

Christian SoschnerHost, Beginner’s Mind

Watch (or re-watch) the full episode with Alasdair Milton here: [YouTube Link]

Conferences fail for the same reason great science fails: brilliant conversations with no delivery system afterward.

In my 1:1 coaching, we build the exact follow-up architecture that turns hallway insights with experts like Alasdair Milton and the KPMG team into closed deals, strategic partnerships, and real competitive advantage.

If BIO International San Diego is on your calendar, now is the moment to set it up.

Meet Us at BIO International San Diego (June 22–25, 2026)

Podcast Episodes and Clips

EP 174: Wanwipa Siriwatwechakul | Funding the Next Industrial Era

EP 173: Bret Kugelmass | The West Bet on the Wrong Energy Future

Incorruptible

We just explored why even the best science in biopharma routinely gets shelved in quarterly reviews, why delivery systems built decades ago push companies toward reactive treatment instead of prevention, and why success itself can quietly bend organizations away from their original mission.

That same relentless logic drives Eric Ries’s new book, Incorruptible.

For decades we’ve blamed corporate drift on bad actors or moral failure. Ries shows the real problem is structural: the very systems of ownership, incentives, charters, and decision-making that fuel growth eventually turn companies against the principles that made them worth building in the first place. Even principled leaders find themselves making the short-term choices they swore they never would.

Incorruptible reframes governance not as bureaucracy, but as a creative, strategic act — the only reliable way to protect mission, culture, and long-term value when success becomes its own form of financial gravity.

It is about designing organizations that stay incorruptible by design.If you want to build (or back) life sciences companies that don’t lose their soul the moment they scale, this is the absolute baseline.

Quote of the Week

Know a world-class founder or investor at the cutting edge of deep tech and global expansion?

Nominate them for the Beginner’s Mind Show.

Get on the Beginner’s Mind Show and reach over 23,000+ entrepreneurs, investors, and deep tech thought leaders:

* Longevity, preventive medicine, and well-being;

* pharma and health tech;

* artificial intelligence;

* climate change;

* and entrepreneurship and investing.

Send a mail to [email protected]

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the Podcast Beginners Mind, you can help support the show by doing the following:

* Sponsor: Reach an influential audience of 23,000+ leaders and decision-makers with a paid subscription.

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Interested in sponsoring the show? Feel free to drop me an email to discuss options. Here are the success metrics:

Top 10% of all podcasts globally*:

*Rating Updated October 2025

46% of our listeners are decision-makers in the US, tuning in from the world’s biggest investment hubs:

Reach an influential global audience of 23,000+ entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers across Europe and the U.S. Tune in on 30+ platforms.

#1 Deep Tech Show in 2025

Community Partner:

These companies make the community, this newsletter, and the Beginner’s Mind Podcast possible, so go check them out and thank them for their support!

You are receiving this Newsletter because you either signed up, we met at a conference, or you attended one of the events organized by Christian Soschner. Feel free to unsubscribe if you don’t find this valuable.

Nothing in this email is intended to serve as financial advice. Do your own research.

2025: A Year of Growth and Collaboration

* New Year’s Letter

* Upcoming Conversations and Events

* Podcast Episodes

* My Book Pick of the Week

* Quote of the Week

* Call for Speakers

* Support the show to help grow the ecosystem and plant trees

* Podcast Media Data

* Community Partners

Dear Listener,

What Makes a Year Unforgettable?

Is it the challenges we overcome, the bold goals we pursue, or the connections we build?

As we step into 2025, I invite you to reflect on what truly matters—and how we can shape the future together.

Thanks to your incredible support, the podcast reached the Top 10% globally in 2024. This milestone reflects the shared vision of innovation, growth, and meaningful conversations we’ve built together.

Yet, this is just the beginning. There’s more ground to cover, more voices to amplify, and even greater impact to create.

Before we explore the highlights of 2024 and what’s ahead in 2025, let me wish you a remarkable year:

“May 2025 bring health to fuel your journey, resilience to navigate challenges, and kindness that ripples far beyond.”

Now, let’s take a bold step into the future—together.

Lessons from 2024—A Year of Bold Moves

Last year, podcasting changed the game forever.

The 2024 U.S. presidential election demonstrated the power of this medium. Both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris used podcast appearances to connect with millions, showing how leaders worldwide are embracing podcasting for authentic engagement.

Even CEOs, like Nicolai Tangen of Norges Investment Bank, are leveraging podcasts to share their vision.

With this shift, podcasting has become a cornerstone of communication. It breaks barriers, connects industries, and inspires action.

My mission is to ensure our podcast continues to lead this movement, amplifying innovation on a global scale.

🎙️ To celebrate, I’ve crafted a special episode—“9 Bold Steps Toward a Brighter 2025.”

This episode features insights from inspiring personalities like Suzanne Heywood, Marc Penkala, Hampus Jakobsson, Shlomo Noy, DC Palter, Joe Panetta, and Marina Schmidt.

These stories highlight the resilience, leadership, and vision shaping tomorrow.

It also introduces a new segment—book reviews, where I blend coaching insights with actionable ideas from entrepreneurial and investment classics.

Let’s continue to lead this movement, amplifying innovation on a global scale.

Why 2025 Matters—And How You Can Help Make an Impact

The podcast’s mission is clear:

To connect with the brightest minds—entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators—and distill their wisdom into actionable insights that inspire and empower.

Through candid conversations and thought-provoking book reviews, I aim to bridge the gap between ideas and execution, delivering a unique blend of storytelling, strategy, and leadership.

It’s about sharing the lessons that shape leaders, fuel innovation, and create lasting impact, one episode at a time.

Together, we’re creating lessons that shape leaders, fuel innovation, and drive impact.

2024 Milestones and 2025 Vision

2024 Highlights:

* Driving Growth: Advised, coached, and served as a board member to unlock value and accelerate growth for innovative companies. My 35 years of experience enrich every conversation as a podcast host.

* Growing Influence: Expanded the podcast to over 17,000 listeners, placing it among the Top 10% globally.

* Investment Success: Outperforming benchmarks like Berkshire Hathaway, S&P 500, and Ark Innovation with disciplined strategies. [Wikifolio Link] | [LinkedIn Post]

* Amplifying Innovation: Speaking at pivotal deep tech conferences in Barcelona and Stockholm.

* Personal Resilience: Restarted marathon training, building on 17 marathons completed.

But the journey doesn’t stop here.

2025: A Year of Ambition

* Board & Advisory Roles: Partner with companies to drive growth and enhance valuation.

* Podcast Growth: Elevate the show to the Top 1%, delivering weekly episodes and livestreams.

* Enhanced Investment Strategy: Achieve IRR >9% with disciplined strategies, while managing volatility.

* Global Representation: Amplify Europe’s voice at top industry events, attending 4-6 major conferences.

* The Marathon Push: Showcasing how resilience, mental clarity, and focus—honed through marathon, martial arts training and Zen practices—fuel success for entrepreneurs and investors alike.

2025: Strengthening for Greater Impact

To achieve these ambitious goals, I’m focused on advancing key areas:

1️⃣ Speaker Outreach: Expanding our reach by attracting exceptional guests with streamlined processes.

2️⃣ Production: Delegating post-production tasks to enhance quality and focus on high-impact conversations.

3️⃣ Post-Production: Elevating content distribution with professional clips, transcripts, and strategic campaigns.

4️⃣ Speaker Coaching: Refining my skills to deliver even greater value in every episode.

How You Can Lead the Change

1️⃣ Sponsor the Podcast: Align your brand with innovation and leadership, reaching an influential audience of global decision-makers.. Let’s discuss your vision—schedule a quick call here. [Discovery Call Link].

2️⃣ Collaborate with Me as an Advisor or Board Member: Leverage my expertise to accelerate your company’s growth while fueling the podcast’s expansion.

3️⃣ Join as a Subscriber: A simple, budget-friendly way to help is by subscribing to the newsletter as a paying member or sharing it with your network.

Step Boldly into 2025

Let’s make 2025 a year of transformation—together. Every decision we make, every collaboration we build, has the potential to inspire lasting change.

Thank you for being a vital part of this journey. Together, we’re not just building a podcast—we’re creating a platform that shapes the future.

Warm regards,Christian

🎙️ P.S. Don’t miss Episode 150—Listen now and start 2025 inspired by the bold stories that shaped 2024.

Upcoming Conversations and Events:

January 7, 2025 - 01:00 pm CET - Kristina Levan, Director Sahlgrenska ATMP center

January 9, 2025 - 02:00 pm CET - Marie Schroeder, Novo Holdings, Seed Investment

January 14, 2025 - 06:00 pm CET - Alex Dang - Author of “The Venture Mindset”

Podcast Episodes and Clips

EP 149: Marina Schmidt - How Do We Feed 10 Billion People Without Destroying the Planet?

Doerte Hirschberg: Investing in Climate Solutions and Transforming Industries (SPARK20 - 114)

The Hard Things About Hard Things

Ben Horowitz, cofounder of Andreessen Horowitz, delivers a no-nonsense guide to the toughest challenges in building and running a startup. The Hard Thing About Hard Things dives into the unspoken realities of leadership—firing friends, making impossible decisions, and surviving the chaos of growth. With sharp insights from his career managing tech companies and a unique twist of rap lyrics to amplify lessons, Horowitz offers invaluable wisdom for seasoned and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. This book isn’t just theory—it’s straight talk on navigating the grit, heartbreak, and triumphs of leading in uncertain times.

Quote of the Week

Know any experts? I'd love recommendations!

Get on the Beginner’s Mind Show and reach over 17,000+ entrepreneurs, investors, and deep tech thought leaders:

* Longevity, preventive medicine, and well-being;

* pharma and health tech;

* artificial intelligence;

* climate change;

* and entrepreneurship and investing.

Send a mail to [email protected]

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the Podcast Beginners Mind, you can help support the show by doing the following:

* Sponsor: Reach an influential audience of 17,000+ leaders and decision-makers with a paid subscription.

* Subscribe on Apple | Spotify | YouTube | and leave a comment and rating

* Follow on Linkedin | Twitter

Interested in sponsoring the show? Feel free to drop me an email to discuss options.Here are the success metrics:

Top 10% of all podcasts globally:

>46% of all listeners in the US:

Reach an influential global audience of 17,000+ entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers across Europe and the U.S. Tune in on 30+ platforms.

Community Partner:

These companies make the community, this newsletter, and the Beginner’s Mind Podcast possible, so go check them out and thank them for their support!

You are receiving this Newsletter because you either signed up, we met at a conference, or you attended one of the events organized by Christian Soschner. Feel free to unsubscribe if you don’t find this valuable.

Nothing in this email is intended to serve as financial advice. Do your own research.

30+ Podcast Platforms | Youtube

What does it take to tackle the world's biggest challenge—climate change—while driving profit and innovation? Meet Doerte Hirschberg, a visionary investor reshaping industries with bold ideas and data-driven solutions.

In this episode, Doerte takes us on a journey of how her team at Climentum Capital uses measurable CO2 impact as their guiding star. She shares insights into why the future of sustainable industries lies in rethinking systems, embracing new technologies, and focusing on the bigger picture. From transforming dairy into vegan alternatives to unlocking the potential of the hydrogen economy, her lessons are as inspiring as they are actionable.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an investor, or someone passionate about sustainability, this conversation will teach you:

* Why CO2 is the most powerful KPI to measure climate impact.

* How industries like food and transport are being revolutionized with technology like precision fermentation.

* The secret to avoiding overhyped trends while investing in solutions that truly make a difference.

At the heart of it all, Doerte’s optimism, strategic mindset, and passion for innovation make this episode a masterclass in balancing ambition with sustainability. As she says, “The world doesn’t need more overhyped investments. It needs smarter ones.”Curious for more? Listen to the full episode here and dive deeper into Doerte’s remarkable journey.

Quotes:

* (10:40) "We need to feed 7 billion people with less land, less animals, and less CO2—this isn't just a challenge, it's an opportunity to rethink the future of food."

* (17:26) "Imagine a world where climate change isn’t just a problem we talk about, but a challenge we’ve conquered—with measurable impact and real change."

* (14:01) "Biases are everywhere—even in venture capital. The industry claims it wants women, yet the system subtly works against them. It's time for that to change."

Timestamps

* (0:00) Can We Balance Profit with Saving the Planet?

* (1:08) Why CO2 is the Key Metric for Climate Impact

* (3:07) The Challenges and Opportunities of Climate Tech

* (8:10) Why LPs Should Invest in Elemental Capital

* (11:12) The Future of Vegan Cheese with Fermify

* (14:01) Breaking Biases in Venture Capital

* (18:46) Vision for a Sustainable Future

Don't miss this chance to learn from Doerte Hirschberg's journey, her inspiring vision, and her sharp strategies to reshape the future. Press play, and let’s spark some change together!

Thanks, Doerte Hirschberg

If you enjoyed this session with Doerte Hirschberg, let her know by clicking on the link below and sending him a quick note on social media:

Click here to thank Doerte Hirschberg on Linkedin!

Click here to let Christian know about your number one takeaway from this episode!

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🎙️ Join Our Newsletter Community & Become a Part of the Journey!

Producing impactful conversations and valuable content comes with its challenges—covering expenses, attracting top-tier speakers, and reaching a wider audience are just the beginning.

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Becoming a paid subscriber is easy and impactful:👉 Subscribe Now to Support the Show

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30+ Podcast Platforms | Youtube

Dear Subscriber,

Are you plugged into the exciting growth and innovation within the European tech landscape? If so, I've got some valuable resources for you!

New Podcast: Europe's Tech Future with David Dana

In my latest podcast episode, I sit down with Head of Venture Capital Investments at the European Investment Fund (EIF), David Dana. We dive deep into Europe's tech evolution, investment strategies, and game-changing technologies.

Key Takeaways:

* Europe's growing power in global tech

* Embracing risk for high returns

* The quantum computing revolution

Listen Now: Europe's Tech Transformation: David Dana's Vision for the Future: [link to the podcast episode]

Meet Me at Bio Europe!

Want more on European tech financing? Mark your calendar. I'll be moderating a powerhouse panel on venture debt at Bio Europe in Barcelona:

* EIB Venture Debt and its Catalytic Role in the Venture Financing Ecosystem

* Date: Mar 19, 2024

* Time: 10:30-11:00 AM

* Location: Exhibit Hall Stage

* More Info: [Bio Europe Event link]

Venture Debt + VC: Unlocking Growth

In a recent conversation with David Dana, we touched on how alternative financing instruments like venture debt are helping propel Europe's tech success. If you're a founder or a VC, you won't want to miss this inside look at the role of the European Investment Bank.

Prepare for the Panel

Get a head start by listening to my podcast with David Dana and explore the EIB's venture debt initiatives. Search online for more information!

I'm pumped to connect with you at Bio Europe!

Best regards,

Christian Soschner

Quotes:

(00:06:42) "Europe has a role to play in the global market."

(00:27:34) "If you don't take the risk, you will not get the rewards."

(00:34:50) "Quantum technologies are at the beginning of something potentially huge."

(00:46:25) "Opening to other shareholders helps to value and support the ecosystem more effectively."

(01:04:16) "We need to generate returns; it's not just about deploying, it's about investing."

(01:20:30) “Europe has the capacity, knowledge, and brains to innovate and change the world.”

(01:27:51) "We need to empower others by trusting them, giving them autonomy and responsibility."

Timestamps:

(00:03:00) Discovering the European Investment Fund: David Dana's Journey

(00:06:10) The Evolution of the European Tech Market: Insights from David Dana

(00:17:46) Navigating Risk in Alternative Investments: David Dana's Perspective

(00:21:05) The Exit Market Challenge: Europe vs. US in Venture Capital

(00:31:45) Cultural Shift for European Innovation: Breaking National Barriers

(00:34:50) Quantum Technologies: The Potential for Revolutionary Impact

(00:45:50) Early Stage Funding and Tech Transfer in Europe: Challenges and Opportunities

(00:48:32) Balancing Global Expansion and European Growth: Strategies for Tech Companies

(00:59:30) Convincing Success: The Key to Gaining EIF Support

(01:06:11) Navigating the Investment Process: EIF's Rigorous Due Diligence Approach

(01:12:50) EIF's Rigorous Investment Process: Ensuring Quality and Due Diligence

(01:24:32) Evolving Role of EIF: Focusing on Specialized Strategies in Europe

(01:25:31) Empowering Teams for Decision-Making

(01:38:15) Navigating Investment Successes and Failures

(01:40:17) Confronting the Future with a Brave Initiative

(01:50:19) Fostering a Supportive Ecosystem for Innovation

Thanks, David Dana

If you enjoyed this session with David Dana, let him know by clicking on the link below and sending him a quick note on social media:

Click here to thank David Dana on Linkedin!

Click here to let Christian know about your number one takeaway from this episode!

Upcoming Conversations and Events:

Exclusive Invitation for the Newsletter Community

🚀 Navigate the New Investment Landscape with Expert Guidance!

The investment world is evolving, and with it, the challenges and opportunities for startups, VCs, and LPs. As we delve into the intricacies of high interest rates, valuations, and the changing dynamics of the venture capital ecosystem, it's crucial to have a strategic partner by your side.

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Book Pick of the Week

Everyone's talking about the legendary tech titans like Steve Jobs, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and Elon Musk. But sometimes, the greatest success stories emerge from the shadows.

After Steve Jobs' passing, Tim Cook took the helm of Apple. Many questioned if the company could thrive without its iconic founder, but Cook has proven to be a visionary leader with a unique style. If you're fascinated by entrepreneurship, investing, and the potential to drive tech giants to even greater heights, you won't want to miss my upcoming book review.

Coming Soon on the Podcast: In-Depth Look at "Tim Cook: The Genius Who Took Apple to the Next Level"

Last time, we dove into "The Power Law" by Sebastian Mallaby, uncovering the DNA of venture capital and the masterminds shaping our tech-driven world. If that sparked your interest, I've got the perfect follow-up!

I'm excited to share insights from Leander Kahney's biography of Tim Cook. Kahney, a seasoned Apple expert and author, offers a rare glimpse into Cook's leadership style. We'll explore:

* Cook's background and how it shaped his approach

* The key decisions that propelled Apple's massive growth

* Lessons in leadership, strategy, and innovation applicable beyond Apple

This book ties in perfectly with our theme of calculated risk-taking for European tech innovation. Stay tuned for my full review after Bio Europe!

Quote for this week

"The biggest risk is not taking any risk... In a world that's changing really quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks."

– Mark Zuckerberg

Zuckerberg's words hit the mark this week as we delve into the power of calculated risk for European tech innovation. It's a central theme in my conversation with David Dana of the EIF. Taking smart risks, backed by strategic financing, is the key to unlocking Europe's tech potential.

Let's unpack this idea further:

* Embracing risk as the fuel for breakthroughs: Zuckerberg's quote reinforces Dana's message that Europe must embrace risk-taking to become a global tech leader.

* Calculated risks, not reckless bets: This isn't about blind leaps – our newsletter and my interview with Dana explore how instruments like Venture Capital and venture debt support intelligent risk-taking.

* Connecting to Bio Europe: This calculated risk-taking is exactly what we'll be discussing at my Bio Europe panel. We'll look at how venture capital and the EIB's venture debt initiatives help European tech companies make the bold moves needed for success.

Seeking dynamic speakers in these areas. Know any experts? We'd love recommendations!

Get on the Beginner’s Mind Show and reach over 12,000+ entrepreneurs, investors, and deep tech thought leaders:

* Longevity, preventive medicine, and well-being;

* pharma and health tech;

* artificial intelligence;

* climate change;

* and entrepreneurship and investing.

Send a mail to [email protected]

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the LSG2G Podcast Beginners Mind, you can help support the show by doing the following:

* Become a Subscriber and get access to the recordings, tickets to our online and real-life events, or help with your contribution to developing the community further

* Subscribe on Apple | Spotify | YouTube | and leave a comment and rating

* Share the show and episodes with your friends and family with this Link

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If you are interested in sponsoring the show, please feel free to drop me an email to discuss options.

Community Partner:

These companies make the community, this newsletter, and the LSG2G Podcast possible, so go check them out and thank them for their support!

You are receiving the LSG2G Letter because you either signed up or attended one of the events organized by LSG2G. Feel free to unsubscribe if you aren’t finding this valuable.

Nothing in this email is intended to serve as financial advice. Do your own research.

30+ Podcast Platforms | Youtube

In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship and global expansion, understanding different startup ecosystems is crucial.

Episode 75 of our podcast series welcomes Lisa Stöger, Program Manager of the Global Incubator Network Austria (GIN), who offers invaluable insights into connecting the Austrian startup ecosystem with…

30+ Podcast Platforms | YouTube

Did you ever wonder what it takes to bring a new medical product from the drawing board to the patient's bedside? Developing a new therapeutic, medical device, or diagnostic tool to help patients with their illnesses is not straightforward. In fact, 90% of product ideas fail in clinical trials, not because of safety and efficacy reasons.

Clinical trials are crucial to every scientific development in the healthcare field. The pandemic has brought clinical trials to the forefront of the news, with daily articles about the clinical development of vaccines and novel medications. The media often portrays clinical trials as simple, but the reality is that they are incredibly complex tasks.

Consider the numbers involved in the Pfizer/BioNTech Phase 3 clinical trial. 43,000 people were enrolled in that study alone. As of November 2020, over 6,274 Covid-19 related clinical trials were listed on the WHO site and clinicaltrials.gov. While not all trials require such a large number of participants, it is still a massive undertaking. For example, the Moderna clinical phase 2/3 trial only requires 4,000 participants. But still, to complete all 6,274 trials, over 1.5 million people would need to be enrolled. This number does not include the study personnel, scientific and development personnel, and regulatory personnel required to conduct and conclude the trial.

To shed some light on the complexities of clinical trial management, I have organized a podcast with Heike Schön, CEO of Lumis International. Heike has over 25 years of experience in international clinical research and drug development leadership positions. She deeply understands the clinical drug development processes and regulatory requirements, from first-in-human to market access. Heike and Lumis International have been working to bridge the gap between biopharmaceutical and medical device companies and the European market, providing legal and data representation services and regulatory consulting to companies outside Europe.

Here are three key takeaways from the podcast with Heike Schön:

* Start Early with the Planning: Clinical trials are a massive leadership and management exercise, and it's important to start early with the planning. According to Heike, the more people involved in the trial, the more time the leaders must spend putting together the plan and aligning everyone toward the goal. The teams of the study sites must be aligned, and it takes time and effort to keep everything moving forward. A well-crafted plan is a key to success in clinical trials.

* Organize the Necessary Structures Early: To reduce the complexity of the project organization, Heike emphasizes the importance of setting up the necessary structures early on. Clinical trials require human beings to deliver the results, and it's crucial to align the people, processes, and protocols early on to ensure a smooth trial.

* Managing Expectations is Key to Success: According to Heike, managing expectations is the key to success in clinical trials. When you consider all the stakeholders involved in a trial - investors, public funding organizations, scientists, CROs, personnel at the study sites, and more - aligning expectations can take out a lot of potential friction from the trial.

In conclusion, clinical trials are complex tasks that require careful planning, organization, and management. Heike Schön and Lumis International have the expertise and experience to help companies navigate the challenges of clinical trial management and bring their products to the European market. Join me for this podcast to learn more about the challenges and opportunities in clinical trials and how to succeed in the rapidly evolving world of healthcare.

Podcastnotes

Timestamps:

(00:00) Intro(02:25) Who Is Heike Schön, Lumis International and Lumis Consulting?(04:20) Topics in the Episode(04:30) Kick-Off(05:00) Background to Lumis International and Heike Schön(10:20) When is the Right Time to Start with the Planning of a Clinical Trial?(12:10) The Role of a Sponsor of a Clinical Trial(14:30) Who is Responsible for the Clinical Trial as a Sponsor?(16:55) When Should a Company Start to Implement Clinical Trial Management in the Organisation?(18:30) Funding Requirements for Clinical Trials(20:00) The Reality of Inhouse and Outhouse Clinical Trial Management(22:15) What to Think About When Planning Oversight Management(25:00) Relationship and Culture Management in Clinical Trials(27:25) Budget and Ressource Requirement for Clinical Trials(28: 45) 3 Steps to a Successful Clinical Trial (30:40) The 3 Main Reasons Why Clinical Trials Fail(33:30) Considerations for Patient Enrollment as a Key Success Factor for Clinical Trials(37:30) … and when enrolment fails, what are the steps to rescue the trial?(42:45) Do Inhouse Studies Require Rescue?(44:30) How to Rescue a Clinical Trial(48:30) Root Cause Analysis as a Starting Point to Rescue a Trial(52:25) Preventive Measures to Avoid Failure Early on(53:30) How Important is Leadership in a Clinical Trial?(56:30) The 3 Main Reasons to Stop a Clinical Trial – The Point of no Return(59:00) How are the Cost Calculated for Rescue Study Management?(01:00:15) Planning of a Clinical Trial – A Key Aspect of a Successful Trial(01:02:15) How to Plan Realistic Timelines and Numbers(01:07:15) The Role of Feasibility Studies in Clinical Trials(01:09:30) How Clinical Trial Management Evolved in the last 30 years(01:11:15) Upcoming Trends in Clinical Trial Management(01:13:15) Decentralized Clinical Trials(01:15:00) Artificial Intelligence And Big Data in Clinical Trial Management(01:17:55) The Digital Twin(01:19:15) The Human Factor and Leadership in Clinical Trial Management(01:21:10) The Patient in Clinical Trials(01:22:55) Planning and its contribution to clinical trial success(01:26:55) Summary of What to Do When Clinical Trials Fail(01:28:35) When is the Right Time to Add a Rescue Team to the Clinical Trial?(01:31:00) A Risk Management Plan for Clinical Trials(01:32:00) Contact

Thanks, Heike Schön

If you enjoyed this session with Heike Schön, let er know by clicking on the link below and sending her a quick note on social media:

Click here to thank Heike Schön on Linkedin!

Click here to let Christian know about your number one takeaway from this episode!

Upcoming Conversations and Events:

Check out the Q1 highlight on March 16:

From Blue Collar to Biotech: The Incredible Journey of NanoTemper CEO Philipp Baaske and His Search for Investment Amidst Financial Crisis."

The CEO of Nanotemper, Dr. Philipp Baaske, will join us in Vienna in our Recording Studio to discuss his journey as an entrepreneur.

* What challenges did he have to overcome?

* Why did he decide to bootstrap his company?

* How did he find customers and a business angel to get off the ground?

Join us as we delve into Philipp Baaske's inspiring story of perseverance and determination in founding NanoTemper and the invaluable lessons he learned from his angel investor Volker Hofmann on the road to success. Tune in to hear about the power of belief in your ideas, the importance of support from family and friends, and the impact an angel investor can have on a startup.

Timetable for March 16, 2023

* 11 am CET - Philipp Baaske - Livestream on Linkedin and Zoom Webinar directly from the Podcasting Studio

* 3 pm CET - LSG2G Networking Get2gether: Meet Philipp Baaske. The location will be announced in March

February 14, 2023 - 12 pm CET - Alex Zhavoronkov - How to Use Generative AI in Drug Discovery - Article about Alex and his company Insilico Medicine

February 17, 2023 - 7 pm CET - Kimberley Miner - Climate Change

February 24, 2023 - 6 pm CET - DC Palter - To Kill a Unicorn

Meet us at the AngloNordic Conference on April 20, 2023

We are looking for speakers. Do you know interesting experts in these areas?

* Longevity, preventive medicine, and well-being;

* pharma and health tech;

* artificial intelligence;

* climate change;

* and entrepreneurship and investing.

Send a mail to [email protected]

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the LSG2G Podcast Beginners Mind, you can help support the show by doing the following:

* Become a Subscriber and get access to the recordings, tickets to our online and real-life events, or help with your contribution to developing the community further

* Subscribe on Apple | Spotify | YouTube | and leave a comment and rating

* Share the show and episodes with your friends and family with this Link

* Follow on Linkedin | Twitter | Facebook

If you are interested in sponsoring the show, please feel free to drop me an email to discuss options.

Podcast Links:

Community Partner: https://linktr.ee/lsg2gChristian Soschner: https://linktr.ee/soschnerPodcast Episodes: https://pod.link/1493847125

Community Partner:

These companies make the community, this newsletter, and the LSG2G Podcast possible, so go check them out and thank them for their support!

You are receiving the LSG2G-Letter because you either signed up or attended one of the events organized by LSG2G. Feel free to unsubscribe if you aren’t finding this valuable.

Nothing in this email is intended to serve as financial advice. Do your own research.

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What is the Role of Biophysics in Drug Development and Drug Discovery?

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Thomas Schubert, CEO of 2bind, a provider of biophysical outsourcing solutions for the pharmaceutical.Dr. Schubert discusses the role of biophysics in drug development and the importance of outsourcing in the pharmaceutical industry. Biophysics is that branch of knowledge that applies the principles of physics and chemistry and the methods of mathematical analysis and computer modeling to biological systems, with the ultimate goal of understanding at a fundamental level the structure, dynamics, interactions, and, ultimately, the function of biological systems.This knowledge can be used to design and develop new drugs that target specific molecules and biological processes, leading to improved treatments for various diseases. He also shares insights into the technologies and competition in the biophysics world and highlights some of 2bind's success stories in the field. About Dr. Thomas SchubertDr. Thomas Schubert received his Ph.D. in Biochemistry in 2012 from the University of Regensburg. Dr. Schubert joined 2bind in 2012 and was called for the CEO position in 2013. Dr. Schubert received the degree Betriebswirt (business economist) in 2014.About 2bind GmbH:The niche 2bind is positioned in the outsourcing market for biophysical assays. Main questions that can be answered by biophysical assays circle around:

* Molecular interactions (what is the affinity, kinetics, thermodynamics, and stoichiometry of a certain interaction?) 

* Protein stability (what is the thermal and colloidal stability as well as the size and MW of a protein)

In the last 11 years, 2bind has enriched its biophysical portfolio with innovative technology and gold-standard tools. The current portfolio of 11 core technologies will be extended in the future. Customers often contact 2bind because they are in need of a reliable partner for their biophysics needs. This may be because they want to outsource certain tasks to 2bind long-term or because they have had difficulties with a certain assay format and need additional assistance. In addition, customers may contact 2bind for consultation on biophysics and how 2bind would approach a specific project.📚 Book mentions in the episode:

The Power LawDas Netzwerkunternehmen📖 Memorable Quotes:(04:30) “At 2bind, we are active with Webinars to educate people.”(08:15) “Biophysics is using physical measurement and interpretation to understand Biology"(24:40) “Many different changes in the environment of drug discovery occurred, and all of them pushed Biophysics.”(52:30) “Always employ people that are better than you”(01:29:27) “Biophysics will play a big role in Drug Discovery in 10 years”⏰ Timestamps:(00:00) Intro (02:00) Recap Bio Europe in Leipzig and Bio International in San Diego after the Pandemic Break(04:15) Integrating Social Media into Business Strategies(07:30) The Role of Biophysics in Drug Development(11:00) Background Thomas Schubert and 2bind(20:00) How has the Role of Biophysics in Drug Development evolved over the last 10 years(26:30) The Role of Biophysics in Antibody Research & Development(29:30) Biophysics and ADCs(33:00) 2bind’s position in the pharmaceutical value chain(38:30) How to combine scientific and development mindsets in the industry(43:30) Competition and Expertise in the Biophysics World(46:15) Technologies used in biophysical research projects(52:19) Challenges for Entrepreneurs Running a Deep Tech Service Business(56:30) Success Story #1: Lead Identification with 2bind(58:30) Success Story #2: Formulation Study with an HIV Vaccine Candidate(01:03:00) The Big Challenges for Pharma in this Century – Antibiotics, HIV, Cancer(01:10:00) The Development of the Life Science Industry in Europe (01:17:00) Outsourcing – when is it the best solution for companies?(01:24:00) Future Trends in Drug Discovery and Drug Development from the Biophysicist’s Perspective(01:36:00) Epigenetics, AI, and Chess(01:43:00) How to Connect with Thomas Schubert⭐ Please support this podcast by checking out our partnersWould you like to listen to the podcast? Follow this link.Would you like to watch the episode on Youtube? Follow this linkDo you want to connect with Thomas Schubert? Get in touch on Linkedin

Thanks, Thomas Schubert

If you enjoyed this session with Thomas Schubert, let him know by clicking on the link below and sending him a quick note on social media:

Click here to thank Thomas Schubert on Linkedin!

Click here to let Christian know about your number one takeaway from this episode!

Noteworthy Articles:

CHIPS Act Spurs $200 Billion Investments in U.S. Semi Industry Although developers and makers of chips are yet to receive grants enabled by the CHIPS and Science act, its announcement and subsequent enactment have already attracted some $200 billion of private investments in the U.S. semiconductor sector, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association, a lobbying group for the industry.. The new projects will impact both chip production as well as electronics manufacturing in the USA. Read more…

Fusion energy breakthrough by US scientists boosts clean power hopes US government scientists have made a breakthrough in the pursuit of limitless, zero-carbon power by achieving a net energy gain in a fusion reaction for the first time, according to three people with knowledge of preliminary results from a recent experiment. Read more… 

The Most Innovative Countries in the World 2022 R&D spend is also casting a wider global net. In 1960, the U.S. made up nearly 70% of global R&D spending, and by 2020 this had fallen to 30%. From job creation and public health to national security and industrial competitiveness, R&D plays a vital role in a country’s economic growth and innovation, impacting nearly every corner of society—either directly or indirectly. Read more…

Upcoming Conversations:

We are preparing for our annual “Year in Review” Recording.

Do you want to listen in during the recording? Sign up here:

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the LSG2G Podcast Beginners Mind, you can help support the show by doing the following:

* Become a Subscriber and get access to the recordings, tickets to our online and real-life events, or help with your contribution to developing the community further

* Subscribe on Apple | Spotify | YouTube | and leave a comment and rating

* Share the show and episodes with your friends and family with this Link

* Follow on Linkedin | Twitter | Facebook

If you are interested in sponsoring the show, please feel free to drop me an email to discuss options.

Podcast Links:

Community Partner: https://linktr.ee/lsg2gChristian Soschner: https://linktr.ee/soschnerPodcast Episodes: https://pod.link/1493847125

You are receiving the LSG2G letter because you either signed up or attended one of the events organized by LSG2G. Feel free to unsubscribe if you aren’t finding this valuable.

Nothing in this email is intended to serve as financial advice. Do your own research.

2006 was a fantastic year. The colossal crisis that hit the western world as the dot.com bubble burst was long forgotten, and capital seemed to be available at every corner. Nobody was aware yet of the coming doomsday of the global financial sector in 2008.

Many new companies started to take off in the first decade of the new millennium in life science.

* Intercell- founded in 1998 - did its IPO on the Austrian stock market in 2005. Werner Lanthaler led the IPO as a CFO and built Evotec into a global innovation engine.

* Marinomed started in 2006 as a spin-out of the University of Veterinary Medicine, founded by Andreas Grassauer and Eva-Maria Grassauer.

* Nabriva - founded by Rodger Novak, now Co-Founder and President of CRISPR Therapeutics - was spun out of Novartis in 2006

* Themis Bioscience started in 2009, led by Erich Tauber and acquired by MSD for 1,1 billion dollars (according to Pitchbook)

* Apeiron Biologics started in 2003, developing the research results of Josef Penninger.

These are just a few examples of companies that started alongside major financial crises, like the burst of the dot.com bubble and the 2008 financial crisis after the collapse of the Lehman brothers.

Starting a company was a massive adventure in those years as no startup ecosystem existed like Europe has today. Also, finding mentors, coaches, and seasoned life science investors was hard work when the ecosystem was young.

A lot has changed since 2006; the ecosystem evolved into a great support system for scientific founders, with the first successes of life science companies; more knowledge about the secrets of structuring deep tech companies is available than two decades ago.

But is the world perfect now, or are there still challenges that need to be overcome to create a better breeding ground for deep tech teams and their technologies that have the potential to change the world?

McKinsey digs deeper into Biotech.

As discussed in a previous blogpost, the consulting firm McKinsey looked at the Biotech sector in Europe very closely and came to some fantastic conclusions in a recent study.

A lot of work still needs to be done, and I wanted to look at these hot topics with proficient people in the field.

In this conversation, I will talk with Alexander Schwartz and Ingrid Kelly Spillmann about the future of the Early-Stage Ecosystem in Europe.

Speaker in the Episode:

Alexander Schwartz joined IST cube in 2018 as a Partner. He has more than 15 years of experience in management consulting, eight of which with McKinsey & Company in Vienna and Chicago. His focus has been on strategy, innovation, and M&A in chemicals, materials, agriculture, and life science-related industries.

Alexander is a scientist by education and heart: He studied chemistry at TU Graz, ETH Zurich, and the University of Vienna before moving on to become a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard University. From 2013-2015 he was a part-time research fellow at IIASA (International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis), a leading European Thinktank.

Ingrid Kelly Spillman joined the IST Tech Transfer team in October 2018 after spending several years at the University of Vienna, where she was responsible for managing the life sciences technology portfolio and supporting spin-out companies. Ingrid worked as a patent attorney in and for the pharma industry for more than a decade in different countries before moving into technology transfer. At IST cube, she will primarily be involved with Biotech, pharma, and chemistry startups, emphasizing intellectual property and legal matters.

Ingrid holds a Ph.D. in molecular biology from the University of Cambridge. She is a qualified European patent attorney with RTTP (registered technology transfer professional) certification.

IST Cube

IST cube focuses on startups with a strong background in science and technology, such as academic spin-offs or young deep tech companies. The fund leads investment rounds in pre-seed and seed stages and has the ability for follow-on investments in later rounds.

The investment team understands the needs of science and tech-based startups and offers tailored support for entrepreneurs. Their hands-on help includes individual coaching and mentoring, as well as access to advanced lab infrastructure and office space. The team has vast expertise in areas that are critical for spin-offs, such as technology commercialization, IP strategy, fundraising, and public grants, and works fast and straightforward, our term sheet is simple and easily understandable, as we want to help founders thrive.

Topics we discuss in the show:

In this conversation, we discuss the Future Of the European Eco-System and talk about topics like:

* Ecosystems

* Early-Stage Investments

* What Are the Cornerstones of VC Investment Stories

* From Science to Business

* The IST Ecosystem

* and much more…

Check Out the Speaker’s Profiles:

* Alexander Schwartz

* Ingrid Kelly Spillmann

* IST cube

Video to the Episode and Links to other Platforms:

LISTEN TO THE EPISODE WITH THIS LINK

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

02:50 Introduction Alexander Schwartz

04:12 Introduction Ingrid Kelly Spillmann

06:05 How are IST, Twist, and IST Cube linked?

09:21 The Success Story of IST – from Greenfield Operations to Top 3 in 15 years

13:20 IST Cube’s Role in the Early-Stage Investment Community

16:45 The People behind IST Cube

19:00 Investment Focus of IST Cube

21:50 What is the attractive opportunity in early-stage investments?

26:00 When is the right time to reach out to VCs?

29:30 How Academic and Business Mindset work Together in Early-Stage Development

34:45 The Attitude for Fundraising Companies

38:20 What is the right timing for creating a spin-out company?

43:14 What deal structures are possible for early-stage companies?

48:25 Entrepreneurial Expertise in the European Eco-System

58:50 Startup Business Models in the Early-Stage Investment Eco-System

01:03:00 How Investors and Start-Ups Work Together to bring positive change to the World

01:06:00 The IST Cube Eco-System in 2021 – Build Around Collaboration and Open Innovation

01:09:15 How The Innovation Eco-System in Austria Collaborates to Support Companies to go from Zero to One

01:12:00 How IST Cube Helps Scientists Making the Transition from Academia to Business

01:17:00 Ideas for the European Eco-System

01:20:10 Failure Culture in Europe

01:23:30 Exit Strategies for Founders and Investors

01:28:35 Four Attributes Startups Should Have to Fit into VC Models.

01:32:40 What is the essential first step in the creation of a new company?

Noteworthy Articles:

The University Spinout Report 2021: which UK universities top the rankings for turning innovation into commercial success? UK universities rank among the top universities globally, comprising four of the top 10, according to leading authority QS World University Rankings. UK institutions are renowned for world-changing innovation, particularly in fields such as pharmaceuticals, engineering, and IT. Read more…

VCs are racing to pay more to get smaller pieces of less profitable companies … the capital crush…the round preemption that has become common…rising valuation marks that have become the entry price to hot startups’ cap tables…and investments into growth have all come together to create a VC market unlike any that I can recall… Read more…

U.S. venture capitalists bet big on European startups American venture capitalists are investing record sums in European startups, setting themselves up to repatriate returns. Read more…

Thanks, Alexander Schwartz and Ingrid Kelly Spillmann!

If you enjoyed this session with Alexander and Ingrid, let them know by clicking on the link below and sending them a quick note on social media:

Click here to thank Alexander Schwartz on Linkedin!

Click here to thank Ingrid Kelly Spillmann on Linkedin!

Click here to let Christian know about your number one takeaway from this episode!

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the LSG2G Podcast Beginners Mind, you can help support the show by doing the following:

* Become a Subscriber and get access to the recordings, tickets to our online and real-life events, or help with your contribution to developing the community further

* Subscribe on Spotify | YouTube | and leave a comment

* Share the show and episodes with your friends and family with this Link

* Follow on Linkedin | Twitter | Facebook

If you are interested in sponsoring the show, please feel free to drop me an email to discuss options.

Community Partner:

These companies make the community, this newsletter, and the LSG2G Podcast possible, so go check them out and thank them for their support!

You are receiving the LSG2G-Letter because you either signed up or attended one of the events organized by LSG2G. Feel free to unsubscribe if you aren’t finding this valuable.

Nothing in this email is intended to serve as financial advice. Do your own research.

In 16 years of supporting life science companies in raising capital and structuring deals with the pharma industry, I never felt that venture capital exists in abundance on the European market.

It always seemed that the market is very VC-friendly on the European stage - plenty of teams and technology meet with a scarcity of available funds.

This was the reason to start the LSG2G Lunch MeetUps in June 2017. I remember our first meetup with 15 Life Science Enthusiasts like Pharma Business Developer, Life Science Investors, Life Science Entrepreneurs, and Service Partners. We discussed the state of Investments in Biotech in Europe.

As the first meetup was well received, the LSG2G Partners organized one every three months, an investment conference, and during the pandemic, created a podcast.

Availability of Venture Capital in Europe

According to Dealroom.co 2017, the transaction volume in life science companies in 2017 was about 3,7 billion euros.

In 2020 investments increased to 6 billion Euros, which was already achieved by July this year. It looks promising to see investments double since we started the LSG2G initiative in the last four years.

Sebastien Groyer - 20 Years Experience in Life Science Venture Investments

So far, to the analytics of Venture Investments in Biotech in Europe. Numbers are fine but leave a few important questions open.

* Who are the people behind those numbers?

* What stories did they write in their career?

* What lessons did they learn in the world of VC Investments?

Business is always done between people, and sharing stories helps to understand how an industry works and how deep tech can be transformed into products that help the patients.

I am delighted to welcome to this episode Sebastien Groyer who brings 20 years of profound investment expertise to the conversation table. In this episode, he will share

7 Tales from 20 Years of Deep Tech Life Science Investments

and also will tell why he turned into a serial entrepreneur in 2021.

Video to this Episode:

Youtube

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

02:35 How do VCs view planning in companies?

05:59 How to Approach Investors when Plans Change

11:00 What are Target Companies of VCs?

15:15 Are VCs Going for First Movers or Rather Established Markets?

19:30 How Detailed Should  Business Plans be when Pitching to VCs?

23:50 Storytelling – From Rough to Detail

27:15 The Reality of VC Life

34:40 How Often Can You Follow Up with VCs before Ending Up on a Blacklist

38:54 What is the Right Time to Approach VCs?

40:40 How do VCs view companies in Fundraising Mode?

46:10 The Fundraising Process in a Company

48:15 Is the Fundraisngprocess Transactional, or do Relationships matter?

51:00 Fundraising – Similarities and Differences between the US and the European Approach

56:50 Entrepreneurship and Investors – Lifestyle or a Job?

01:00:00 The Role of Money in Different Societies

01:04:00 Why Do VCs Search for Exits?

01:11:00 Valuation Expectations of VCs

01:14:00 It is all about growth

01:19:00 When Does it Make Sense to Reach out to VCs?

01:23:00 Differences in the Value of Information in the B2B and B2C world

01:27:00 The Pros and Cons of being an Investor or Entrepreneur

01:30:00 Spirituality, Investment, and Entrepreneurship

01:34:30 What is the most important thing to consider when reaching out to VCs?

Join Our Conversations:

I am delighted to announce that the LSG2G Partner, Diagnostics Expert, and Business Angel Albert Missbichler invites us to a Get2gether in his wine cellar in the Vineyards of Vienna.

* When? October 10, 2021 - 3:30 PM

* Where? Stammersdorfer Kellergasse 106, 1210 Vienna - Austria

* Price? EUR 28,- for buffet and welcome drink (payment at the event)

* Music? Jazz, Viennese Chants, and Opera

Due to the current corona measures, the event is limited to 50 guests, and the latest corona rules apply. Please make sure that you are either vaccinated or have a negative PCR test result to participate in this event.

First, come - first serve principle.

It would be great to welcome you in person - Albert Missbichler and Christian Soschner will be there.

Interested?

Register today with a brief eMail to

Community Partner:

These companies make the community, this newsletter, and the LSG2G Podcast possible, so go check them out and thank them for their support!

You are receiving the LSG2G-Letter because you either signed up or attended one of the events organized by LSG2G. Feel free to unsubscribe if you aren’t finding this valuable.

Nothing in this email is intended to serve as financial advice. Do your own research.

I remember the days well, back in the 70s and 80s when Science Fiction writers were philosophizing about machines taking over the world and making the human race redundant.

Do you remember the 1984 movie Terminator, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Styrian Oak?

The narrative of the movie was a Robot traveling back in time to avoid the machines going extinct. Artificial Intelligence already has won the battle against the human race back in the future.

Terminator wasn‘t the only movie of this kind. Do you remember Knight Rider? As Michael Knight, David Hasselhoff was the only person able to communicate with his car correctly. A man‘s dream. I will never forget when Michael raised his arm, talked into his wristwatch, and a minute later, KITT - his car - stopped right in front of him.

Many books and movies were pondering the question -

what happens if computers become so smart that they equal human beings in their „mental“ abilities.

Gene Roddenberry discussed such ideas in Star Trek; George Lucas invented Star Wars to consider the future.

R2D2 and 3CPO were intelligent robots that helped the Jedi fight against the Empire. Or the Borg, a species that combines humanoids with technology, or the Android Data in Star Trek the Next Generation.

In literature, writers like Isaac Asimov, Stanislaw Lem, or the writers who contributed to the Perry Rhodan Series similarly raised questions about how intelligent computers can become and how that will change society.

The 80s were a significant period, right before the biggest invention that changed the entire society. The internet started in 1993 when the CERN Institute decided to put the WorldWideWeb online for free—basically, licensing it to everybody. It was one of the most powerful enabling technology.

Flashforward to 2021, we now live in a world where indeed, those Science Fiction Narratives are reality. Well, at least partially. Cars are self-driving, Wristwatches are a means of communication, and robots already help human beings organize their lives. I am thinking about Alexa and Siri.

Artificial Intelligence Today

While writing this article to announce the Podcast recording with Wolfgang Kienreich, I read the latest findings in Quantum Physics. An AI called MELVIN helped come up with a novel solution.

What is Fact, and what is still Fiction?

Do we already live in a sci-fi world, or is technology not as advanced as it looks in articles?

There are so many questions open around the topics of

* Artificial Intelligence

* Big Data

* Cyber Security

* Data-Driven Business or

* Knowledge Discovery

Why not invite someone from the AI field to philosophize about AI taking over the world.

I am delighted that one of the world‘s best research institutes in this field started in Austria about 20 years ago in Graz. One of the most beautiful cities in Europe, where I began my research in „How Business will change now that the Internet exists.” - which we called eBusiness.

Join the Conversation

Listen to Wolfgang Kienreich, CBO of Know-Center, in this conversation to get an update on what’s fact and what‘s still fiction in Artificial Intelligence.

Wolfgang Kienreich studied computer science in Graz and communication science in Vienna. He founded a startup specializing in visualization technologies and worked for Hyperwave Research. He has been working at the Know-Center in Graz since 2003 and headed, among other things, the research area of knowledge development and visualization. He has written over 60 scientific publications on these topics. As a director, he has been responsible for business strategies at the Know-Center since 2014.

Video to this Episode:

Youtube

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:45 What is Fact and What is Fiction in Artificial Intelligence?

05:45 Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Driving

07:30 AI in Language Translation and Understanding

11:00 AI in Education

12:20 How AI Improves Drug Discovery and Development

15:00 Analyzing Health Data under GDPR

16:55 How Wearable Technology Can Support Scientists to Get More Insights into the Development of Diseases

18:15 European North Star Projects in AI

20:45 Starting Point for SME Entrepreneurs in AI

24:00 The History of the KNOW Center

27:20 Industry Partners of the KNOW Center and Use Cases Developed with them

31:30 How Does AI Affect Labour?

34:05 Innovation Speed and AI

36:00 The Role of AI in Search

41:00 AI and Recommendation Management

43:00 Potential in Assisted Living

44:30 What is a Digital Twin?

47:35 Recommendation to SMEs to Approach KNOW Center

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