Innovating Clinical Trials Podcast Series: Part 3 - Opportunities in Patient Recruitment and Industry Transformation

Welcome to Innovating Clinical Trials podcast, where we explore the cutting-edge shifts in clinical research. In this episode, hosts Liam Eves and Ted Trafford wrap up the series with industry analyst Joel White, diving into opportunities in patient recruitment, site network growth, and the evolving role of technology.

Joel shares his insights on breaking down the root causes of patient enrollment challenges, the impact of private equity on site networks, and the exciting potential of new methodologies in recruitment. From the rise of SMOs to the commoditization of technology in trials, this episode offers a forward-looking view of how the industry is transforming. 

Innovating Clinical Trials Podcast Series: Part 2 - Pricing Strategies and Emerging Dynamics

Welcome to Innovating Clinical Trials podcast, where we continue to explore the rapidly evolving landscape of clinical research. In part 2, hosts Liam Eves and Ted Trafford are joined once again by industry analyst Joel White to dive into the complexities of pricing strategies and the shifting dynamics in the CRO and biotech sectors.

This episode unpacks the implications of pricing pressures, the role of FSP models, and the increasing consolidation of site networks. Joel shares his expert insights into how these trends are shaping the industry and what they mean for sponsors, CROs, and site organizations alike. Whether you’re managing trials, building partnerships, or navigating competitive pricing environments, this episode is packed with thought-provoking takeaways.

Part 1 - Navigating Trends in a Shifting Landscape

Welcome to Innovating Clinical Trials podcast, where we explore the dynamic forces shaping the clinical research industry. In this episode, hosts Liam Eves and Ted Trafford are joined by industry analyst Joel White to unpack the key trends defining Q3.

From cancellations and funding challenges to site network innovations and advancements in technology, Joel provides a compelling analysis of the current CRO and biotech landscape—and what the future might hold. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of clinical trials or seeking actionable insights to stay ahead, this episode offers valuable perspectives for industry professionals.

In this episode of Innovating Clinical Trials, Liam Eves and Ted Trafford explore the challenges of recruitment and enrollment in clinical trials, comparing the current approach to "packing everything but the kitchen sink." They critique the overreliance on central advertising campaigns and highlight missed opportunities to address foundational issues like protocol design, site relationships, and storytelling.

Ted advocates for simplifying protocols and creating a dedicated VP of Enrollment role to optimize trials for faster delivery without compromising data integrity. Liam emphasizes the underutilized power of storytelling, showing how a compelling narrative about a study or sponsor can transform site engagement and motivation.

The discussion concludes with a call for long-term solutions to systemic enrollment issues, moving beyond the short-term study-by-study approach. Packed with practical insights and creative ideas, this episode challenges listeners to rethink clinical trial recruitment and the importance of strong, relatable narratives in building lasting partnerships with sites and patients.

In this episode of Innovating Clinical Trials, hosts Liam Eves and Ted Trafford delve into the nuanced frameworks behind effective clinical trial delivery. Liam introduces a proprietary system he has been refining for over 17 years, which leverages four critical lenses: medical/scientific/regulatory, operational/logistics, behavioral science, and leadership. These frameworks aim to streamline trial delivery, reduce costs, and optimize outcomes.

The conversation highlights how simplifying protocols and fostering early communication with regulatory bodies like the FDA can speed up trials and save resources. The discussion also explores often-overlooked aspects like the psychological dynamics of trial teams and participants, emphasizing the importance of motivation, team structure, and tailored patient engagement.

Finally, the episode underscores the significance of strong leadership in navigating inevitable challenges and ensuring cohesive execution. Packed with insights and practical strategies, this episode offers a fresh perspective on clinical trial delivery, blending science, psychology, and operational excellence.

In this episode of Innovating Clinical Trials, hosts Liam Eves and Ted Trafford dive into the complex and often chaotic world of site startup in clinical trials. Using a creative metaphor of a horse race, they vividly illustrate the hurdles and unpredictable challenges faced during site activation, from regulatory documentation delays to contract negotiations stumbling out of the gate.

Liam and Ted explore the critical impact of poor planning, misaligned communication, and unreliable vendors on trial timelines, emphasizing how these factors can derail even the most promising studies. They also discuss actionable solutions, such as adopting more realistic startup timelines, improving communication with sites and patients, and streamlining access to necessary resources and technology.

With a mix of humor, insight, and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better understand the intricacies of site startup and how to overcome its challenges.

In this episode of Innovating Clinical Trials, hosts Liam Eves and Ted Trafford are joined by Selin, CEO and founder of Massive Bio, to discuss the challenges and opportunities for startups in the clinical trial space. Selin shares her expertise on what it takes to succeed in this highly complex and regulated industry. We provide some valuable advice for startup CEOs, emphasizing the importance of understanding the true pain points within pharma, focusing on solving critical problems, and knowing who will pay for the solution. We also highlightsthe difficulties startups face, from long revenue cycles to navigating the unique challenges of working with pharmaceutical companies, and stresses the need for resilience and dedication to overcome these hurdles.

In this episode of Innovating Clinical Trials, hosts Liam Eves and Ted Trafford continue their discussion with Selin Kurnaz, CEO and founder of Massive Bio, an AI-powered platform that connects cancer patients with clinical trials. The conversation centers around the critical challenges in oncology trial enrollment, from recruitment failures to the operational difficulties encountered in the "Last Mile." We discuss the need for transparency, education, and a rethinking of traditional clinical trial processes. Selin discusses the complexity of site selection, prescreening, and patient identification, highlighting that the current system often overlooks the operational steps that are crucial for successful trial participation. 

In this episode of Innovating Clinical Trials, hosts Liam Eves and Ted Trafford are joined by Selin Kurnaz, CEO and founder of Massive Bio, an AI-driven platform designed to connect cancer patients with clinical trials. 

Our conversation dives deep into the challenges of patient awareness, access, and logistical hurdles in trial enrollment. Selin shares how her personal experience with her uncle’s cancer diagnosis led to the creation of Massive Bio and her mission to streamline trial enrollment using technology. 

We discuss the "Last Mile" problem and walk through how combining technological scale with personalized concierge services can help patients not only find relevant trials but also overcome the logistical and financial barriers that can prevent participation. With insights into the complexities of the clinical trial landscape, the discussion highlights the critical steps needed to bridge the gap between patients and life-saving treatments.

Welcome to Innovating Clinical Trials, the podcast designed for clinical research professionals eager to deepen their understanding of clinical trials through concise, insightful segments. Join your hosts, Liam Eves and Ted Trafford, as they uncover the core issues in clinical research, reflect on the industry, and challenge conventional wisdom.

In today's session we chat with Joel White from Marketcap Consulting about the financial performance of the clinical development space. In the final part of our 3 part discussion we talk through book to bill ratios, find out what is concerning Joel with the market and dive deeper into the Walgreens and BARDA agreement.