What does it really take to build a thriving biotech ecosystem and help breakthrough science reach patients? In this episode of Learning From Leaders, host Lili Clark sits down with Dr. Gabby Everett, Director of Business Operations and Strategy and site head at BioLabs Pegasus Park, to unpack the infrastructure, partnerships, and leadership that turn early-stage biotech ideas into real-world impact.

Gabby explains how BioLabs functions as a shared lab and office community where startups have the benefit (yes, benefit) to fail fast - a key aspect of biotech progression. They can adapt and progress quickly and access high-cost equipment without raising millions to get started. She walks through what “ecosystem building” looks like in practice, from connecting founders to advisors and investors, to creating the collaborations that spark innovation at the intersections of disciplines. You’ll also hear why companies are relocating to Dallas-Fort Worth, how Bridge Labs supports the next stage of growth, and what common mistakes early biotech teams make when scaling too quickly.

The conversation also explores leadership lessons from bench science, mentorship and sponsorship, and how the region can foster more women founders and future talent through hands-on student exposure to biotech careers.

Learn more about BioLabs Pegasus Park: https://www.biolabs.io/north-texas

Chapters: 00:00 - Show Open/Intro 00:48 - Meet Dr. Gabby Everett and BioLabs Pegasus Park 01:31 - What BioLabs is and how it supports startups 04:32 - From PhD scientist to biotech ecosystem builder 08:10 - Leadership lessons from trial-and-error research 10:25 - What it takes to grow a biotech ecosystem in Dallas 13:37 - BioLabs growth since opening and why it mattered 17:26 - Startup stages, bench-by-bench growth, and Bridge Labs 23:49 - Why biotech companies are choosing Dallas-Fort Worth 29:29 - Women in biotech leadership and building the next pipeline 46:25 - AI, automation, and what’s changing in biotech 51:42 - Rapid fire and closing

Episode Details:

Episode 2, Season 3

Host: Lili Clark | Vice Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate, LH Capital, Inc. / Lyda Hill Philanthropies

Guest: Dr. Gabby Everett | Director of Business Operations and Strategy, Site Head, BioLabs Pegasus Park

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation - www.swmedical.org

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer: The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice.

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

Do repeated “bell ringers” and repetitive, sub-concussive hits add up over time? In this episode of Learning From Leaders, host Lili Clark sits down with Dr. Jeff Schaffert, assistant professor in UT Southwestern Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry, to explore the evolving science of brain health in athletes. Fresh off receiving The Cary Council’s $50,000 early-stage research grant, Dr. Schaffert shares how the pilot study he's leading combines blood-based biomarkers, advanced neuroimaging, and cognitive testing to look for early, often invisible signs of cognitive decline in former collegiate football players.

You’ll hear why this research matters beyond the NFL and how researchers are trying to better understand neurodegenerative risk. Dr. Schaffert also breaks down what leadership looks like in the lab and explains what researchers hope to learn from early signals such as neuroinflammation and white matter changes.

The conversation also zooms out into practical, balanced guidance for families weighing the benefits of sports, plus everyday brain-health habits that can reduce dementia risk over time. This episode tackles the big question about brain health in football and offers clarity, nuance, and a grounded look at what we know and what scientists are still working to understand.

Chapters:

00:00 - Show Open

Episode Details:

Episode 1, Season 3

Host:

Guest:

Producer:

Videography:

Disclaimer:

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, host Lili Clark sits down with Dr. Carine Feyten, chancellor of the Texas Woman’s University System and president of Texas Woman’s University, to unpack how a 125 year old institution stays future focused. TWU, originally founded in 1901 to open doors for women, is now the seventh university system in the State of Texas and serves nearly 16,000 students across its campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston. Dr. Feyten explains the move to become the nation’s first women focused public university system, expand TWU’s Dallas and Houston campuses, and invest in programs like the Health Sciences Center and School of Aeronautical Sciences.

Along the way, she dives into the mindset behind that mission: why we socialize boys for bravery and girls for perfection, what it really means to listen as a leader, and why only 7% of your message is in the words you choose. Dr. Feyten also reflects on her non linear journey from Belgium to Texas and her belief that there is no perfect place, only the attitude and focus you bring to it.

Chapters:

00:00 – Open

Episode Details:

Episode 12, Season 2

Host: Lili Clark | Vice Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate, LH Capital, Inc. / Lyda Hill Philanthropies

Guest: Carine Feyten, Ph.D. | Chancellor of Texas Woman’s University System & President of Texas Woman’s University

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation - www.swmedical.org

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer: The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice.

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

In this episode of Learning from Leaders, host Mason Smith sits down with Dr. Benjamin Greenberg and Dr. David Greenberg, two accomplished physician-scientists, innovators, and brothers shaping the future of medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center. Benjamin, a neurologist leading groundbreaking stem cell and immune-reset therapies, and David, an infectious disease expert developing game-changing technologies to fight antimicrobial resistance, share how their childhood, training, and competitive streaks unexpectedly led them to the same institution.

Blending humor with deep insight, the Greenbergs unpack the realities of translating science into therapies, navigating the “valley of death” in research, and launching biotech companies born from clinical problems. They also highlight the power of teamwork, mentorship, and Texas’ rapidly growing innovation ecosystem — from philanthropic support to transformative statewide research initiatives.

Episode Details: Episode 11, Season 2

Host: Mason Smith | Steering Committee Member, The Cary Council; Vice President, Actium Group

Guests: Benjamin Greenberg, M.D. | UT Southwestern Medical Center and David Greenberg, M.D. | UT Southwestern Medical Center

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer: The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice.

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, host Lili Clark sits down with Alfreda Norman, retired Senior Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, to explore a career defined by connection, trust, and community. From her beginnings in the Dallas Arts District to two decades of leadership at the Fed, Alfreda has built bridges between institutions and people — ensuring that economic growth includes every community it touches.

Alfreda reflects on the lessons that guided her leadership: seeing the world through a lens of abundance, building authentic relationships as the foundation of progress, and understanding that trust is your greatest currency. She shares how mentorship shaped her journey, why Dallas remains a hub for big ideas and collaboration, and how leaders can nurture equity and access by engaging deeply with those they serve. Whether you’re a community advocate, a corporate leader, or someone reimagining your next chapter, Alfreda’s story is a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership — reminding us that meaningful change begins with people who care about one another.

Episode Details: Episode 10, Season 2

Host: Lili Clark | Vice Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate, LH Capital, Inc. / Lyda Hill Philanthropies

Guest: Alfreda Norman | Retired Senior Vice President, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer: The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented. The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, we sit down with Warren Tranquada, President and CEO of the AT&T Performing Arts Center. From his roots in Toronto to nearly two decades at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Warren brings a wealth of nonprofit leadership experience to Dallas’s thriving Arts District. He shares the moment that first hooked him on live performances, and reflects on how that passion continues to shape his leadership style today.

Warren explores the vital role philanthropy plays in sustaining cultural institutions, explaining how collective support has transformed Dallas into a destination for world-class performances and economic growth. He discusses the Center’s priority of reaching new and more diverse audiences, the unique opportunity the 2026 FIFA World Cup offers to brand Dallas as a global arts city, and how technology is reshaping live experiences. With insights on strategy, partnerships, and the intersection of art and human health, Warren highlights why the arts are essential to both community vitality and personal well-being. Tune in to hear how strong leadership and philanthropy are shaping Dallas’s cultural future.

Episode Details:

Season 2 | Episode 9

Host: Lili Clark | Vice Chair, The Cary Council; Senior Associate, LH Capital, Inc. / Lyda Hill Philanthropies

Guest: Warren Tranquada | President and CEO, AT&T Performing Arts Center

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer:

The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes. Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice.

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast. However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.” Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System. The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

What if the prescription for better health starts in the kitchen? In this episode of Learning from Leaders, we sit down with Jaclyn Albin, M.D., Associate Professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center and founder of its pioneering Culinary Medicine program. A nationally recognized leader in food as medicine, Dr. Albin blends nutrition, education, and clinical care to show how what we eat plays a critical role in prevention and healing.

She shares her personal journey that sparked a passion for integrating food into medical training, from leading classes in UT Southwestern’s teaching kitchens to building one of the nation’s first culinary medicine clinical programs at the UT Southwestern RedBird campus. Along the way, Dr. Albin reflects on leadership lessons she has also learned, like the power of authenticity, persistence in driving change, and meeting people where they are. This conversation highlights how food, community, and innovation can reshape the future of health.

Chapters:

00:00 – Open

Episode Details:

Episode 8, Season 2

Host:

Guest:

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer:

The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

In this episode of Learning From Leaders, we sit down with Mandy Ginsberg and Shar Dubey. These two women are trailblazing executives who each served as CEO of Match Group, the company behind Tinder, Match.com, OkCupid, and Hinge. Together, they reflect on their unlikely paths into tech leadership, building a startup from the ground up, and scaling Match into a global portfolio of brands. Their story is one of risk-taking, resilience, and redefining the rules of leadership. 

Mandy and Shar share candid insights into their complementary styles, the power of asking for help, and why transparency and trust shaped Match’s culture. They also discuss the importance of mentorship, gender equity, and building diverse teams. They offer advice for rising leaders and talk about their continued work in health and wellness, including Mandy’s service on the Board of Southwestern Medical Foundation and involvement with the women’s health app, Flo.

Chapters: 

00:00 – Intro 

Episode Details: 

Episode 7, Season 2 

Host: 

Guests:  

Shar Dubey | Former Match Group CEO (2020-2022 | www.mtch.com 

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation - www.swmedical.org

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com 

Disclaimer: 

The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice.   

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented. 

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated. 

How do we ensure that there is funding to advance medicine? It starts bold vision and is catalyzed by the generosity of donors, but sustaining support for the critical work of our health care leaders requires expertise in stewarding those donations within an investment portfolio. Sarah Fletcher, CFO of Southwestern Medical Foundation, leads a conversation with investment leaders David Haley and Andrew Zach as they explore how the Foundation responsibly manages $1.2 billion in total pooled assets. From navigating market volatility to aligning strategy with mission, this episode offers an inside look at the disciplined approach, long-term vision, and local stewardship driving impact in North Texas and beyond.

Listeners will gain insight into how a carefully structured governance model enables strategic oversight, how private capital and diversification have played a role in endowment growth, and how investment decisions are made with the Foundation’s enduring health care mission in mind.

Whether you're a donor, board member, or fellow steward of philanthropic assets, this conversation underscores the value of intentional, strategic investing.

Chapters:

00:00 – Teaser

00:31 – Introduction to the Episode and Guests

01:27 – The Role of the Foundation's Endowment

02:32 – Guest Backgrounds: David Haley and Andrew Zach

05:05 – Evolution of the Endowment and Growth Strategy

07:25 – Navigating Market Volatility

09:12 – The Shift from a 60/40 Portfolio

11:09 – Governance Without a CIO

13:52 – Lessons from Downturns and Rebalancing Strategy

15:40 – The Role of Alternative Asset Classes

18:09 – How Success is Measured: Benchmarks and Peer Groups

21:14 – Aligning Investment Strategy with Mission

22:53 – Principles Behind Manager Selection

24:06 – Local Insight: Carbon and Energy Investments

25:34 – Takeaways for Trustees and Donors

27:15 – Trends and Growth in North Texas

28:04 – AI, Biotech, and Innovation Opportunities

29:25 – Staying Disciplined Amid Investment Fads

31:00 – Site Visits and Hands-On Engagement

33:16 – Avoiding Investment Pitfalls: China and Risk

35:27 – Final Reflections and Key Takeaways

37:48 – Outro and Invitation to Subscribe

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Episode Details:

Episode 6, Season 2

Host:

Guests:

Andrew M. Zach | Sr. Vice President, FEG Investment Advisors

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation

Videography: Aristoi Media - www.ianvanalan.com and Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer:

The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.

What does it take to lead in public health during a crisis and beyond? In this episode of Learning From Leaders, we sit down with Dr. Richard Hoffman, longtime state epidemiologist and former Chief Medical Officer of Colorado, and Dr. Saad Omer, Founding Dean of the Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health at UT Southwestern. Together, they explore what it means to serve the public, the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they’re preparing the next generation of public health leaders. From vaccine breakthroughs to data-driven community outreach, this episode offers a masterclass in leadership, innovation, and purpose.

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome and Introductions

Episode Details:

Episode 5, Season 2

Host: Mason Smith | Steering Committee Member, The Cary Council; Vice President, Actium Group

Guests:

Richard Hoffman, M.D., | Trustee, Southwestern Medical Foundation; and Former Chief Medical Officer of the State of Colorado.

Producer: Dustin Magwire | Digital Media Senior Manager, Southwestern Medical Foundation

Videography: Brazos Film & Video - www.brazosfilms.com

Disclaimer:

The Southwestern Medical Foundation Podcast is intended solely for educational purposes.  Nothing contained therein constitutes, nor should be interpreted as medical, healthcare, financial or legal advice. 

Southwestern Medical Foundation strives for accuracy in its publications, including the Podcast.  However, due to the nature of the topics discussed, there frequently is not a clear-cut “right answer.”  Consequently, Southwestern Medical Foundation cannot guarantee the accuracy or sufficiency of any information presented.

The views of the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations, nor Southwestern Medical Foundation, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center or the University of Texas System.  The inclusion of any guest or mention of any product or service does not constitute an endorsement thereof, nor of any company, employer, or organization with which the guest, product, or service is affiliated.