EP#027 Summary

In this episode of Higher Power Tech, we explore the rapidly evolving pharmaceutical industry and the career opportunities emerging from this shift. Hosts Marc and Dr. Will Comar dive deep into how AI, biotechnology, and patient-specific diagnostics are transforming drug development and patient care.

Dr. Comar, a PhD biochemist, explains that many current medications are created as broad, one-size-fits-all cocktails, leading to ineffective treatments and unpleasant side effects. But with advances in AI and genomics, companies are beginning to develop therapies tailored to individual genetic profiles. This shift not only promises better health outcomes but also signals a wave of innovation and new job creation in fields like bioinformatics, R&D, data science, and diagnostics.

The hosts emphasize that while some see this technological shift as a threat to jobs, it actually opens doors for new roles, especially in research and technician positions. They highlight that this won’t be an overnight disruption but a gradual transformation, requiring time, investment, and a growing workforce to manage the complexities of personalized medicine.

Marc and Dr. Comar also touch on their personal philosophies on longevity, sharing how a healthy lifestyle combined with scientific advances could help us live longer and better lives. They reinforce the importance of preparation and mindset—viewing change as opportunity, not fear.

With a course on career development coming soon and their commitment to helping listeners grow personally and professionally, this episode is both insightful and motivational for anyone considering a future in biotech or looking to pivot into a resilient, growing industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pharmaceutical Disruption 02:53 The Role of Technology in Healthcare 06:11 Personalized Medicine and Genetic Profiling 08:54 Job Creation in the Evolving Pharmaceutical Landscape 11:49 The Economics of Drug Development 14:58 Patient-Centered Diagnostics and Future Trends 18:09 Life Expectancy and Health Innovations 22:48 Aspirations for Longevity 26:08 The Science of Aging and Health 30:33 Natural Healing and Health Practices 32:57 The Future of Healthcare and Job Opportunities 37:50 Optimism and Longevity

EP#026 - Summary

In this episode of the Higher Power Tech Podcast, we explore emerging and lesser-known career opportunities in the evolving tech and science sectors. The conversation focuses on bioinformatics and technician roles—two paths that are increasingly vital yet often overlooked.

We kick things off by spotlighting bioinformatics, a growing field especially relevant in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. With companies gathering massive datasets from ongoing biomedical research, there's a critical need for professionals who can analyze and interpret this data. If you have experience in coding languages like Python, Java, or even C++, and a basic understanding of scientific principles, this could be a great entry point—even if you’re coming from fields like finance or law.

Next, we dive into technician positions. Often dismissed due to intimidating job descriptions, these roles are actually ideal for breaking into labs and gaining hands-on experience. Whether it's biology, chemistry, or cell culture work, a background from university labs or coursework can go a long way. The key message? Don’t count yourself out. If you meet even 70–80% of the requirements, apply. Let the company decide, not your inner critic.

The episode also includes an honest discussion on job-hunting frustrations: dealing with rejections, imposter syndrome, and the emotional toll of constant applications. The hosts share real-life stories, tips for avoiding common mistakes (like leaving the wrong company name on a cover letter), and encouragement to keep pushing forward.

Ultimately, it’s a call to action for those seeking new directions in their careers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or fresh out of school, these are real, attainable roles that could lead to impactful and lucrative futures.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to New Career Opportunities
02:59 Understanding Bioinformatics Positions
06:03 Entry-Level Technician Roles
11:54 Overcoming Job Application Fears
17:44 The Importance of Persistence in Job Searching

EP#025 - Summary

In this insightful episode of the Higher Power Tech Podcast, we officially welcome Dr. William Comar, a biochemist with a PhD focused on eye receptor research for macular degeneration treatments. While his academic roots are in medical-grade biochemistry, Dr. Comar shares how he’s pivoted from research into leadership roles, helping set up and run startup biotech labs with the goal of scaling them into fully operational corporate laboratories.

Together, we explore how science and technology are rapidly converging—especially within biotech. Dr. Comar walks us through the essential intersection between biochemistry and machine learning, emphasizing the rising role of AI in predictive analytics for pharmaceutical and cancer research. From 3D DNA modeling to large-scale drug testing simulations, the overlap is transforming how scientists solve some of the world’s most complex problems.

The conversation also takes a practical turn, guiding those who may feel late to the game. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or 50s, there’s a clear path to entering this evolving industry. Dr. Comar recommends biotech as a powerful and accessible degree path, blending biology, chemistry, coding, and real-world lab applications. Even short coding certifications in Python or C++ can be the bridge that merges your skills into this new domain.

Beyond the science, this episode encourages personal growth, resilience, and staying curious. Dr. Comar’s story of persistence, including homelessness and rejection, becomes a powerful testimony that greatness is attainable from anywhere—even Cleveland to Zurich. We close with a passionate call to action: don’t just consume technology—use it to create, lead, and grow. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of work, science, and how to forge a career in biotech from scratch.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Higher Power Tech Podcast
01:54 Exploring Biochemistry and Drug Targeting
05:59 Transitioning from Research to Management in Biotech
08:59 The Intersection of Science and Technology
14:04 Education Pathways in Biotechnology
18:59 The Future of Biotech and AI Integration
24:02 Navigating the Challenges of AI in Science
29:04 Empowering the Next Generation in Science and Technology
34:04 Conclusion and Call to Action

EP#024 - Summary

In this episode of the Higher Power Tech Podcast, we break down the art of designing a sustainable personal workflow that aligns with a modern, remote, and often chaotic tech lifestyle. Broadcasting from Marbella, Spain, we dive into the importance of building a personal routine that holds steady no matter where you are in the world. This is about more than time management—it's about setting a foundation that supports mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, which in turn fuels professional success.

We explore the structure of a strong morning routine: early rising, gratitude, meditation, and physical activity. Whether you’re into lifting, yoga, cycling, or walking, the key is to design your surroundings to support the life you want to live. From checking gym access when booking travel accommodations to choosing environments that reduce friction, it’s all about eliminating excuses before they arise.

The episode also connects personal workflow to professional resilience. If you’re constantly overwhelmed by work, it may be because your personal routine lacks structure. By focusing on controllable aspects—waking up early, moving your body, and taking moments for mindfulness—you build capacity to handle the unpredictable parts of work. This isn't a motivational speech; it’s a tactical blueprint for gaining control where it matters most.

We also preview a new course aimed at helping IT professionals implement these strategies, especially while living the nomadic, digital-first lifestyle that’s becoming more common. Whether you’re an engineer, founder, or part of a tech team abroad or at home, this episode reminds us that consistency starts from within.

The message is simple but powerful: put your mask on first. Handle your energy, health, and mindset—and watch the rest align.

Chapters

00:00 Designing Your Life: The Importance of Routine
12:44 Building a Personal Workflow for Success

EP#023 - Summary

In this compelling episode of Higher Power Tech Podcast, we sit down with Dr. William "Billy" Comar, a PhD biochemist currently living and working in Zurich, Switzerland. His journey is anything but conventional, filled with ups and downs, valuable lessons, and unwavering perseverance.

From an early fascination with the human body sparked by a childhood book to earning his PhD in biochemistry, William’s path was shaped by passion, resilience, and unexpected turns. Raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he initially set out to become a medical doctor but found himself navigating academic struggles, self-discovery, and career pivots before ultimately finding his calling.

After an extended undergraduate experience—taking over ten years to complete his degree—William eventually earned his PhD in biochemistry. His journey included setbacks such as academic probation, financial struggles, and moments of doubt. However, he persisted, leveraging mentorship and personal determination to transform obstacles into opportunities.

Upon completing his PhD, he took on a teaching role at Arizona State University, but soon realized he wanted more financial security and career growth. Transitioning into industry, he became the Laboratory Manager at Naviq Nasix, where he now leads innovative efforts in cancer diagnostics to improve treatment options for patients.

Beyond his career, William speaks about personal growth, moving to Switzerland to support his wife’s desire to be closer to family, and the challenges of job searching in a new country. His story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of cultivating the right environment for personal and professional success.

This episode is filled with inspiration, wisdom, and candid reflections on overcoming failure, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome. Whether you're navigating a career change, struggling with setbacks, or simply looking for motivation, William’s journey is proof that success isn’t always a straight path—it’s about perseverance, learning, and embracing the process.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on career growth, education, and the importance of pushing past adversity to achieve excellence.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey
10:00 Transition to College Life
22:19 Hitting Rock Bottom
34:14 Turning Struggles into Strengths
43:50 Transitioning from Academia to Industry
51:45 Navigating Career Changes
01:01:05 Finding Purpose in Work

EP#022 - Summary

In this episode of the Higher Power Tech Podcast, we dive into the holistic journey of career fulfillment and personal wellness. Host Marc Comar is joined by special guest Martina Fink, founder of the GLOW program, as they discuss the importance of aligning your career with your well-being. Broadcasting from a boat in Zurich, Switzerland, the two explore how a holistic approach to life and career can lead to sustainable success.

Martina shares her personal journey, from working as an Apple store manager to launching her own wellness business. She emphasizes the need to listen to one's intuition rather than conforming to societal expectations. Many people chase external validation—climbing the corporate ladder, filling out their CVs, and pursuing promotions—without considering what truly brings them joy.

To help others find balance, Martina outlines her four-step process for achieving holistic well-being:

Rest – Prioritize quality sleep and mindful breaks. Overworking leads to diminishing returns, while proper rest enhances efficiency and creativity.

Move – Physical activity is a natural stress reliever. Whether it’s yoga, a morning workout, or a simple walk, movement revitalizes the body and mind.

Nourish – Nutrition is more than just food; it includes what you consume mentally and emotionally. Be mindful of the media you engage with, the conversations you participate in, and the content you absorb.

Glow – Engage in activities that bring you joy in the present moment. Don't wait for a promotion, relationship, or milestone to enjoy life. Make space for hobbies, travel, and self-care.

Marc reinforces these points by emphasizing personal accountability. He challenges listeners to take control of their time, energy, and priorities, stressing that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. The conversation highlights how true career success stems from internal alignment rather than external pressures.

As the episode wraps up, Martina leaves listeners with an empowering message: You are enough. You don’t need to achieve more or prove yourself to be worthy. Everything you need to live the life you desire is already within you.

For more on Martina’s GLOW program, check out martinafink.com. Stay tuned for the next episode of Higher Power Tech Podcast!

Chapters

00:00 Prioritizing Self-Care and Nourishment
32:55 The Importance of Glowing in the Present
37:40 Embracing the Journey and Self-Acceptance

EP#021 - Summary

In this episode of Higher Power Tech Podcast, we dive deep into the key principles that will help you ace your IT job interviews in 2025. Whether you’re looking to break into the industry, pivot careers, or land your next big role, these strategies will set you apart in a competitive job market.

Our host, Marc Comar, founder of Kane Ross LLC, an IT staffing firm, shares firsthand insights from both hiring managers and candidates. With years of experience placing professionals in corporate America, he reveals two essential tactics to maximize your interview success.

Many candidates enter interviews with a mindset of desperation or stress, especially if they’re out of work. This creates anxiety that hiring managers can sense. Instead, Marc emphasizes shifting your perspective from needing a job to growing in your career. A growth mindset helps reduce stress, making you more confident and present during the interview.

When you’re fully engaged, you actively listen and respond more effectively, which can make all the difference. Hiring managers often pass on candidates who misinterpret questions due to nervousness. By entering with a mindset of growth rather than need, you can focus on showcasing your skills and fit for the company.

Interviewing is a skill that improves with practice. Marc stresses the importance of doing multiple interviews—if you’ve done four, aim for eight; if you’ve done eight, go for sixteen. Every interview is an opportunity to refine your delivery, manage nerves, and get valuable feedback. Just like in sports, repetition leads to mastery.

Successful professionals, athletes, and public speakers all put in the reps to improve. The same applies to IT professionals preparing for interviews. More interviews mean more opportunities to learn, adapt, and ultimately land the right job.

Acing an interview isn’t just about getting an offer immediately—it’s about improving with each experience. By shifting your perspective and putting in the reps, you’ll not only perform better but also approach the process with confidence and control.

Stay tuned for future episodes where we’ll cover technical interview prep, LinkedIn optimization, and crafting an AI-friendly resume. If you need personalized guidance or job placement assistance, reach out to Kane Ross LLC.

Subscribe, comment, and let us know what interview challenges you’re facing!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Interview Success
10:50 The Importance of Perspective in Interviews
17:40 Putting in the Reps for Interview Mastery

EP#020 - Summary

In this episode of the Higher Power Tech Podcast, we dive into the evolving landscape of IT careers and how to secure your position in a rapidly shifting industry. With major technological advancements, such as Nvidia’s upcoming supercomputer and the increasing importance of AI-driven tools like Copilot and ChatGPT, professionals must stay ahead of the curve.

Host Marc Comar emphasizes that while job uncertainty persists due to industry shifts and corporate restructuring, there are always opportunities for those willing to adapt. He encourages IT professionals to proactively seek out emerging fields, such as data science, analytics, and engineering, rather than waiting for opportunities to come to them.

A key takeaway from this episode is the importance of calculated risk-taking. Marc shares his philosophy: "Calculated risk-taking is security-making." By identifying gaps in a company’s workforce and acquiring relevant skills or certifications, IT professionals can ensure their continued relevance. Whether it means transitioning from front-end development to data engineering or pursuing additional certifications in high-demand areas, positioning oneself strategically is crucial.

Drawing from his experience as the owner of Kain Ross LLC, an IT staffing firm, Marc provides insights into what employers are looking for. He stresses the need for continual learning and warns against complacency. The industry is ever-evolving, and those who fail to upskill risk being left behind.

Ultimately, job security in IT isn’t about staying put—it’s about staying prepared. Tune in to learn how to identify growth opportunities, navigate industry trends, and take the necessary steps to future-proof your career.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating the IT Landscape
09:57 Creating Your Own Opportunities

EP#019 - Summary

In this episode of the Higher Power Tech Podcast, we explore why technical expertise alone isn’t enough for career growth in IT. Host Marc Comar speaks directly to engineers, data scientists, and IT professionals, stressing the critical role of soft skills in advancing their careers.

Many skilled engineers find themselves stuck in the same roles for years while colleagues from business or sales backgrounds move up the corporate ladder—even into technical positions. The missing factor? The ability to communicate effectively. Companies value employees who can translate complex technical knowledge into clear, business-oriented discussions that resonate with leadership and decision-makers.

Marc highlights that IT professionals often struggle with bridging the gap between their technical expertise and the needs of executives, customers, and other departments. He underscores that possessing soft skills—such as clear communication, adaptability, and networking—is just as crucial as technical proficiency. Without them, companies may prefer hiring someone with moderate technical skills but strong interpersonal abilities over a deeply technical employee who struggles to communicate.

Drawing from his experience in IT staffing, Marc shares insights on how engineers can cultivate these skills. He encourages stepping outside of technical comfort zones through activities like learning new hobbies, engaging in non-technical conversations, or even taking classes in communication or leadership. These experiences can make engineers more relatable and effective in professional settings.

With the rapid advancements in AI and automation, companies are prioritizing efficiency and cost-cutting. This means professionals who fail to adapt may find themselves overlooked or even replaced. Marc urges engineers to take proactive steps in developing their soft skills to ensure long-term career stability and growth.

Tune in to learn how to future-proof your career and unlock new opportunities in the tech industry.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Soft Skills in IT Careers
11:57 Navigating Career Growth and Corporate Dynamics

EP#018 - Summary

In this episode of the Higher Power Tech Podcast, we dive into the world of programming languages, breaking down where to start and what to focus on depending on your goals.

Our resident tech expert begins by introducing foundational web development technologies: HTML and CSS. HTML provides the structure of a webpage, like the foundation of a house, while CSS acts like an interior designer, enhancing visual appeal. Although not considered traditional programming languages, they are essential for front-end development.

Next, we explore JavaScript, a widely used language that adds interactivity to websites, making them dynamic and functional. JavaScript operates on both the front end and back end, making it a versatile skill for developers.

Moving into backend development, we discuss Golang (Go), a powerful language designed for building APIs and backend systems. While JavaScript can handle backend tasks, Golang is often preferred for its efficiency and performance.

One of the most popular languages today, Python, is highlighted for its versatility. It’s great for automation, data science, and backend development. Python shares similarities with JavaScript, making it easier to learn if you’re already familiar with one.

The conversation then shifts to career paths, distinguishing between front-end developers, back-end developers, and the various job opportunities available. Whether you’re interested in creating beautiful websites or managing databases and server-side logic, there’s a place for you in the tech industry. Our expert also emphasizes that you don’t need to master every language—learning one well provides transferable knowledge that makes picking up others easier.

For those wondering about job prospects, we discuss looking beyond tech giants like Facebook or Microsoft. Many companies in retail, logistics, and other industries have IT departments needing developers. Searching for job titles like "JavaScript Developer" or "Python Engineer" on platforms like LinkedIn can reveal diverse opportunities.

If you’re just starting out in programming, stay curious, explore different technologies, and have fun with the process. The skills you build now will serve as a gateway to exciting career opportunities.

Tune in to learn more about the best first steps into programming!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Programming Languages
05:33 Career Paths in Programming