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BIO from the BAYOU: Build Your Biotech Network with Key Opinion Leaders and Investors
BIO from the BAYOU: Build Your Biotech Network with Key Opinion Leaders and Investors episodes
- Episode 120: How to Build Smart Early-Stage Biotech Partnerships That Actually WorkTrying to form early biotech partnerships but unsure when to say yes, when to push back, or when to walk away?
In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, welcomes back Renee Williams, PhD, MBA, returning to the show as Chief Business Officer at Signify Bio. Drawing from her experience on both sides of the table (as a pharma dealmaker and now an early-stage biotech leader) Renee shares hard-earned insights on how founders can approach partnerships strategically without losing focus, time, or control of their company’s story.
In this episode, you’ll learn:- How to evaluate early partnership opportunities and decide which ones are worth your limited time, capital, and attention.
- Why focus is the most valuable currency for early-stage biotech, especially for platform companies facing constant “what else could this do?” questions.
- Practical guidance on MTAs, pilot studies, and proof-of-concept work, including how to structure collaborations so they move you closer to a real deal—not just more experiments.
Whether you’re navigating your first pharma conversation or refining how you partner as a growing biotech company, this episode offers clear, experience-driven advice to help you build partnerships that accelerate progress instead of distracting from it.
Links:
Connect with Renee Williams, PhD, MBA, and check out Signify Bio.
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Check out our previous episode with Renee.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Check out BIO on the BAYOU.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.22 min - Episode 119: 2026 Biotech Market Update – What Investors Are Watching Right NowWhat’s really happening in biotech right now, and where should innovators and investors be paying attention?
In this market update episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, is joined by guest host Travis Manasco, MD, for a candid conversation on the current state of biotech investing. Together, they unpack where momentum is building, where enthusiasm is cooling, and how founders, scientists, and investors should think strategically as the market finds its footing. From GLP-1s and AI to women’s health and preclinical challenges, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at today’s biotech landscape—just in time for JPM.
In this episode, you’ll learn:- Which biotech sectors are heating up and why areas like obesity, AI-enabled clinical trials, and women’s health are drawing renewed interest
- Why early-stage and preclinical innovation remains a tough funding environment, despite long-term opportunity
- How market signals like acquisitions and JPM dynamics may shape biotech strategy in the year ahead
Tune in for an honest, insightful market conversation that cuts through the hype and helps you think more clearly about where biotech is headed next.
Links:
Connect with Travis Manasco, MD, and check out Solas BioVentures.
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Check out the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference 2026.
Check out our previous episode with Travis on AI in Medicine.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.32 min - Episode 118: The #1 Survival Guide to the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference for Biotech LeadersWant to come back from JP Morgan with more than just a stack of business cards?
In this timely episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Chris Yochim, a longtime JP Morgan Healthcare Conference insider. With more than three decades of experience leading partnering strategy at AstraZeneca and Zeneca, Chris shares a practical, behind-the-scenes look at how the world’s most intense healthcare meeting really works—and how to prepare for it effectively. As JP Morgan approaches, Elaine and Chris break down what “success” looks like for different audiences, from academic tech transfer and startups to investors and large pharma.
In this episode, you’ll learn:- How to define “winning” at JP Morgan based on your role—academic, startup, investor, or industry leader.
- Why preparation, flexibility, and memorable first impressions matter more than a full calendar of meetings.
- Practical tips for pitching, following up, and building long-term relationships before, during, and after the conference.
Whether this is your first JP Morgan or your tenth, this episode offers actionable advice to help you navigate the chaos, build meaningful connections, and turn conversations into real momentum.
Links:
Check out the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference 2026.
Connect with Chris Yochim and check out NIIMBL and AstraZeneca.
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Check out EBD Group, RESI, and the Guide to JPM'26 app.
Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP and Dennis Purcell, MBA.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.34 min - Episode 117: How Universities Can Lead Biotech Innovation with Startup Mentorship and Venture FundingHow can universities become powerful engines of innovation, startups, and economic growth—especially in a challenging funding environment?
In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Kimberly Gramm, PhD, MBA, the David & Marion Mussafer Chief Innovation and Entrepreneurship Officer at the Tulane Innovation Institute and Managing Director of Tulane Ventures. Kimberly shares how Tulane is building a comprehensive innovation ecosystem—from early-stage programming and mentorship to venture funding—designed to help researchers, students, and founders translate discovery into real-world impact. Together, they explore what it takes to change institutional culture, scale innovation thoughtfully, and position universities as active investors in the future of biotech and healthcare.
In this episode, you’ll learn:- How universities can support founders and technologies across every stage of the innovation journey, not just at commercialization.
- Why mentorship, alumni engagement, and listening to stakeholders are critical to building sustainable innovation programs.
- How strategic venture funds and proof-of-concept investments can accelerate biotech spinouts and regional economic growth.
Whether you’re a researcher, founder, or innovation leader, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how universities can step up, take risks, and help innovation thrive—even in uncertain times.
Links:
Connect with Kimberly Gramm, PhD, MBA, and check out Tulane Innovation Institute and Tulane Ventures.
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Check out our previous episode with Kimberly.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Check out BIO on the BAYOU.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.20 min - Episode 116: How Alumni-Powered Venture Funds Can Transform Regional Biotech InnovationWhat if your alumni network could help fuel the next generation of biotech startups?
In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, sits down with Evan Nicoll, MBA, and Patrick Hernandez of 1834 Ventures, a new investment fund created by Tulane alumni, for founders with Tulane DNA. They share how their alumni-powered model is helping to close regional funding gaps, strengthen emerging biotech ecosystems, and support founders through trust-driven, relationship-first investing. From navigating today’s tough fundraising climate to understanding what really catches an investor’s eye, this conversation offers practical lessons for founders, universities, and anyone building innovation communities.
In this episode, you’ll learn:- How alumni networks can become powerful engines for venture funding, mentorship, and deal flow.
- What investors are really looking for in early biotech pitches, and why trust, clarity, and curiosity matter more than perfection.
- Why founders should embrace relationship-building over rapid-fire pitching, and how regional markets like Louisiana can attract coastal investors.
Tune in to discover how connection-driven investing is helping shape the next chapter of biotech growth across the Gulf South — and how you can be part of it.
Links:
Connect with Evan Nicoll, MBA, and Patrick Hernandez, and check out 1834 Ventures.
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Check out Cadenza Bio and the book The Speed of Trust.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Check out BIO on the BAYOU.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.17 min - Episode 115: Exploring New Frontiers of Biotech and Healthcare Innovation Through Curiosity and ConnectionWhat does the future of biotech look like when curiosity, not competition, leads the way?
In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, talks with Aziz Abadsafian, MBA, Technology Scout at Nissan Chemical America. Together, they dive into the “edges” of science — the more speculative world of embryology, longevity, and what Aziz calls the true frontier of biotech. Along the way, they explore how curiosity, relationship-building, and “night science” conversations can unlock unexpected opportunities in your career and in the industry.
In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why the biggest biotech opportunities lie at the extremes – in aging, fertility, longevity, and neurodegeneration.
- How curiosity and genuine relationships lead to better collaborations than transactional networking ever could.
- Practical advice for scientists and students on finding your path, staying inspired, and building a career that aligns with what you’re good at AND what you love.
Tune in for a thoughtful, funny, and wide-ranging conversation about discovery, imagination, and why the future of biotech will always belong to the relentlessly curious.
Links:
Connect with Aziz Abadsafian, MBA, and check out Nissan Chemical America.
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Check out our previous episode with Cain McClary.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Check out BIO on the BAYOU.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.17 min - Episode 114: How AI, Supply Chains, and Smart Strategy are Redefining Biotech Investment and Venture CapitalHow can biotech startup founders navigate the intersection of science, technology, and data to build truly durable companies?
In this episode, host Elaine Hamm, PhD, talks with Cain McClary, MD, Founder and Managing Partner of KdT Ventures, a seed-stage venture firm investing at the convergence of science and technology. A Tulane alumnus and “supply chain junkie,” Cain shares how curiosity, data-driven insight, and strategic storytelling can set biotech innovators apart.
In this episode, you’ll learn:- The biggest mistakes biotech startups make—and how to avoid them.
- Why understanding incentives, storytelling, and systems is key to scaling innovation.
- How AI, data ownership, and new consumer health models are reshaping the future of biotech.
Tune in to discover how KdT Ventures is rethinking biotech investment—and what it takes to turn scientific insight into lasting impact.
Links:
Connect with Cain McClary, MD, and check out KdT Ventures.
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Learn more about PathAI.
Check out our fireside chat with Walter Isaacson.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Check out BIO on the BAYOU.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.21 min - Episode 113: A New Way to Collaborate, Network, and Fuel Innovation in Biotech with BLPNAre you tired of competition and struggling to find collaborators in biotech?
In this episode, returning host Patrick Reed, RTTP, talks with Christiaan Engstrom, MBA, Founder and CEO of BLPN, a member-led club connecting life science dealmakers with one goal: helping each other succeed. Christiaan shares how BLPN has built a thriving community where collaboration, mentorship, and trust come first — creating opportunities that go far beyond business cards and conference booths.
In this episode, you’ll discover:- How a simple mantra — “Find Someone to Help. Repeat.” — is reshaping biotech networking.
- Why connection, not competition, is the key to sustainable industry growth.
- How leaders can strengthen regional biotech ecosystems and bring coastal innovation energy inland.
Tune in to learn how genuine collaboration can transform biotech partnerships – and why the most powerful deals start with helping someone else.
Links:
Connect with Christiaan Engstrom, MBA, and check out BLPN.
Connect with Patrick Reed, RTTP, and learn about Auburn University IPX.
Learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Connect with James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and Tamika Jackson.
Check out JPM, BioAlabama, and The Beautiful Way Foundation.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Check out BIO on the BAYOU.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.19 min - Episode 112: Curiosity, Creativity, and the Human Spark of Discovery – A Fireside Chat with Walter IsaacsonWhat can today’s biotech innovators learn from the greatest thinkers in history?
In this special episode, we’re bringing you a live recording from BIO on the BAYOU featuring a fireside chat between Elaine Hamm, PhD, and Walter Isaacson — renowned biographer of Steve Jobs, Jennifer Doudna, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and other groundbreaking innovators. Together, they explore the power of curiosity, resilience, and imagination in shaping scientific discovery. From the origins of creativity to the ethical challenges of AI and gene editing, this conversation shines a light on the shared traits that drive humanity’s boldest breakthroughs.
In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why history’s greatest innovators were powered by relentless curiosity — not just intellect.
- What resilience looks like across centuries, from Leonardo da Vinci to modern-day misfits shaping the future.
- How scientists, universities, and the public can rebuild trust, communicate science better, and rekindle a shared sense of wonder.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends science, storytelling, and the timeless human drive to explore the unknown — straight from the BIO on the BAYOU stage.
Links:
Connect with Walter Isaacson and check out his new book The Greatest Sentence Ever Written.
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Check out BIO on the BAYOU.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.35 min - Episode 111: The #1 Way to Build Your Network as an Introvert in Biotech and Beyond (RE-RELEASE)Does networking stress you out? Are you having difficulty connecting with colleagues at conferences or partnering events?
Mastering the art of genuine connection is essential to advancing your career and building your network. In this listener-favorite episode, James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and Elaine Hamm, PhD, dive deep into their personal strategies for networking success. With years of experience attending and producing biotech events, they share invaluable tips, insights, and even some humorous stories about their networking journeys—both the wins and the awkward moments. Whether you're an introvert looking for practical tips to step out of your comfort zone or an extrovert wanting to refine your approach, this episode offers something for everyone.
In this episode, you'll discover:- How to approach networking with authenticity, whether you're an introvert or extrovert.
- Tips on building genuine connections at biotech events and staying in touch after.
- Practical rules to position yourself to get the most out of networking, even if it's outside your comfort zone.
Tune in to learn how to connect authentically, overcome social anxiety, and make the most out of your next networking opportunity.
Links:
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Learn about James’ first communications role: EXTRA!
Connect with Ian McLachlan, BIO from the BAYOU producer.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.14 min
About BIO from the BAYOU: Build Your Biotech Network with Key Opinion Leaders and Investors
From the publisher's feed
Are you struggling to find investors, funding, collaborators, and strategic connections in the ever-changing world of biotech?
This show empowers biotech leaders with the tools, assets, and expertise to improve healthcare outcomes.
Listen to “Bio from the Bayou” to learn how to:
- Expand your network
- Advance your product line
- Make your company thrive
With over two decades of experience in biotech and business development each, hosts James Zanewicz and Elaine Hamm (from Tulane University School of Medicine) talk with their friends from the Gulf South and beyond to offer advice on networking, communication, and innovation, as well as unprecedented access to interviews with key opinion leaders in biotech.
Every Wednesday, tune in to hear 15–20-minute episodes centered around solving biotech’s greatest challenges. If you’re ready to take the necessary steps towards success, start with fan-favorite Episode 58: Top Ways to Build Your Network as an Introvert in Biotech.