In this episode, Sam Kessel and Anastasia Janas interview Luke Timmerman, an award-winning biotech journalist and founder of the Timmerman Report, as well as host of The Long Run Podcast. They explore Luke's non-traditional background, his curiosity, and his openness to learning, which shaped his journey to becoming a prominent figure in the biotech space. Luke shares insights into his career, discussing his book Hood, the founding of the Timmerman Report, and his podcast. He also offers his perspective on the key qualities of biotech founders and VCs, the importance of diversity, and how to unlock individuals' full potential. Additionally, Luke discusses his passion for mountaineering and how he combined it with his work, creating the Timmerman Traverse, a series of fundraising expeditions that have raised over $12M for causes such as cancer, poverty, and sickle cell disease.

Episode Notes:

2:05 Luke's upbringing and early influences

5:40 Path to journalism and early career after university

10:45 Transition to biotech journalism and key lessons

16:00 Book “Hood” 

20:55 Founding the Timmerman Report

25:40 Launching The Long Run podcast

30:05 Future projects outlook

32:00 Traits of a successful biotech founder 

37:05 Role of VCs in biotech innovation

40:05 Luke's perspective on AI in drug discovery

45:50 Launching the Timmerman Traverse, blending passion for mountaineering, biotech journalism and philanthropy

52:00 The importance of diversity and strategies to promote it