Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer

In this episode of Talk Radioisotopes, Paul Schrimpf, Proprietor and Entrepreneur at Cyrall, unpacks what it takes to build and scale a radiopharmaceutical business. With a background spanning Accenture, Prophet, and leadership roles advising top healthcare organizations, Paul draws on deep experience across strategy, marketing, and team development to lay out what radiopharma innovators can learn from the broader B2B and life sciences sectors. He explains why too many startups fall in love with their technology before identifying a buyer, and why clarity, not complexity, is the foundation of effective communication.

Paul also explores how AI is reshaping early-stage strategy—not by replacing decision-makers, but by accelerating hypothesis development, sharpening messaging, and driving customer-centric thinking. He shares practical frameworks for using tools like ChatGPT to refine go-to-market models, stress-test assumptions, and identify real buyers, not just theoretical markets.

The conversation then pivots to commercialization strategy, where Paul critiques outdated pharma marketing playbooks and highlights the untapped potential of personalization and digital targeting. He also challenges old-school sales mentalities, urging founders and go-to-market teams to prioritize listening over pitching. Whether you're building a radiopharma company or advising one, this episode is packed with tactical insights into what it takes to succeed in today’s healthcare environment.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(4:45) Business Comes Down to People
• *(8:15) Addressing Unmet Needs and the Biggest Mistakes Startups Make
• *(21:20) What Pharma Marketing Still Gets Wrong
• *(24:50) Where is the Consumer?
• *(32:00) What Space is Radiopharma in the Future?

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Paul Schrimpf

Visit Cyrall

Talkradioisotopes.com

—----

In this episode of Talk Radioisotopes, host Scott Ravi sits down with Sigal Kalmanson Cusnir, CEO and Co-Founder of Starget Pharma, an early-stage company at the forefront of precision oncology. Starget is redefining the way radiopharmaceuticals are discovered and developed by merging AI technology with decades of expertise in peptide chemistry.

Sigal shares how Starget's proprietary backbone cyclization technology and in silico AI models enable the rapid development of metabolically stable and highly specific radioligands for hard-to-treat cancers. She also explains the company’s unique platform approach, which optimizes isotopes, chelators, and ligands for targeted cancer therapies, all in accelerated timelines.

Listeners will learn about Starget’s innovative drug discovery pipeline, the company's ambitions to enter clinical trials, and the broader implications for the future of radiopharmaceuticals. This episode is a must-listen for biotech professionals, oncology researchers, and investors tracking the next wave of AI-powered drug development.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(01:48) The Science Behind Smart Targeted Radioligands
• *(04:02) AI and Peptide Radioligand Discovery
• *(06:31) Understanding Starget Pharma's Product Pipeline
• *(11:26) Emerging Isotopes and Future Prospects
• *(13:10) Sigal’s Advice for the Early Stage Companies
• *(19:35) Sigal’s Magic Wand

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Sigal

Visit Starget Pharma

Talkradioisotopes.com

—----

In this episode, Milton Lönnroth, Co-Founder and CEO, shares how Atley Solutions is changing the game for astatine-211, a promising isotope in cancer therapy. Atley supports radiopharmaceutical companies and researchers by enabling the scalable production and labeling of astatine-based compounds. Milton explains how the company's roots in the University of Gothenburg’s alpha therapy group shaped a mission focused squarely on patient needs, especially for challenging cancers like metastatic ovarian cancer. The company's first commercial product, the C100 module, automates the purification, labeling, and preparation of astatine-211 drug products, significantly lowering the barrier to entry for researchers and clinical developers alike.

Milton dives deep into what makes astatine-211 uniquely suited for targeted radiotherapy. Its simple decay scheme, pure alpha emissions, and lack of hard gamma radiation allow for more precise treatment with fewer safety hurdles, enabling outpatient care and reducing the need for bulky shielding infrastructure. The show also explores the logistical and chemical advantages of astatine’s halogen status, its compatibility with small molecules, and the potential to reach hard-to-treat cancers like glioblastoma and neuroblastoma. Milton turns criticism of At-211’s short half-life on its head, arguing that astatine offers a “Goldilocks” balance, perfect for scalable and environmentally sound therapeutic use.

Milton is optimistic about At-211’s role in advancing curative cancer care. With Atley’s technology entering clinical trials and commercial momentum building, he foresees a broader pipeline of alpha therapies reaching patients worldwide. He also emphasizes the importance of infrastructure and workforce development to support this growth and raises a call-to-action for the industry to invest in radiopharmacy readiness and training. Whether it’s reducing relapse rates in ovarian cancer or unlocking treatment options for children with aggressive cancers, Milton and his team at Atley are working hard to give astatine a leading role in defining the next era of nuclear medicine.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(02:25 The Origin Story of Atley Solutions
• *(04:34)  Clinical Trials and Seeing Promising Results
• *(08:17) The E100 Module: A Game Changer
• *(13:53) The Unique Properties of Astatine-211
• *(19:27) Global Progress and Future Prospects
• *(22:45) Challenges and Opportunities in Radiopharmaceuticals

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Milton

Visit Atley Solutions

Talkradioisotopes.com

—----

In this episode, host Scott Larrivee speaks with Dr. Luke Nordquist, a medical oncologist and Founder/CEO of XCancer, a globally recognized clinical research center. Dr. Nordquist shares the origin story of XCancer—born out of a desire to bring cutting-edge prostate cancer trials to community care settings—and how it has grown into a nationwide clinical research network supporting over 45 community cancer centers. With a patient-first philosophy, Luke discusses building operational efficiency, launching world-first trials, and developing proprietary research software to streamline clinical operations.

They dive deep into the challenges and myths surrounding clinical trial participation. Dr. Nordquist debunks misconceptions around cost, access, and patient eligibility while underscoring the life-extending value trials offer. He explains how only 3–5% of cancer patients enroll in trials, often due to a lack of awareness, and why reshaping this narrative is essential. His approach includes integrating trial options into routine care and building relationships with pharmaceutical sponsors, helping bring innovative treatments to patients in both urban and rural settings.

Scott and Luke also explore the future of theranostics, including X Cancer’s expansion into radiopharmaceutical clinical trials. Dr. Nordquist introduces TheranosticTrials.org, a first-of-its-kind patient- and provider-friendly platform that consolidates trials, education, and industry resources into one hub. The episode closes with a visionary look at democratizing access to cancer innovation globally, including in Tanzania—and even features a detour into Dr. Nordquist’s X Cancer Motorsports team, led by his son on the road to Indy.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(01:28) How XCancer came to Existence
• *(03:58) Expanding Research and Collaborations
• *(08:44) Expanding Clinical Trials and Patient Perspectives
• *(21:11) Overcoming the Challenges in Clinical Research
• *(24:10) Theranostic Trials and Community Centers
• *(31:46)What is the Future of Theranostics and Global Expansion
• *(34:48) XCancer’s Own Branded Race Car

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Luke

Visit XCancer

Talkradioisotopes.com

—----

On this episode, hosts Scott and Sarah are joined by Matt Furlow, Associate Principal at ZS, about the evolving role of radiopharmaceuticals in oncology. With a PhD in bioengineering and a decade of consulting experience, Matt brings a unique perspective on how scientific insight and strategic planning intersect to help biotech and pharma companies bring new therapies to the market.

Matt shares how radiopharmaceuticals are following a path similar to antibody-drug conjugates and cell therapies. Which is attracting investment but facing challenges in logistics, site readiness, and workforce shortages. He explains why supply chain planning must start early, how regulatory requirements impact delivery sites, and why expanding access is critical for patient care. From radionuclide shortages to limited site accreditation, Matt outlines the practical hurdles companies must overcome.

The trio explores emerging isotopes like actinium and copper and the potential for radiopharmaceuticals to move into earlier lines of treatment. Emphasizing the need for a diverse therapeutic toolkit—tailored isotopes, targeting agents, and delivery mechanisms—to personalize cancer care. Matt closes with a bold vision: if key barriers can be addressed, radiopharmaceuticals could one day supplant traditional radiation therapy.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(02:37) Matt's Journey from Academia to Consulting
• *(05:29) The Current State of Radiopharmaceuticals
• *(08:34) Challenges found in the Radiopharmaceutical Supply Chain
• *(12:14) Exploring the Patient Journey and Logistics
• *(23:56) What is the Future of Radiopharmaceuticals?

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Matt

Visit ZS

Talkradioisotopes.com

—----

On this episode, hosts Scott and Sarah sit down with Dr. Suzanne Lapi, Professor of Radiology and Chemistry and Cyclotron Facility Director at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

The conversation dives into Dr. Lapi’s multifaceted role in radiopharmaceutical research, isotope production, and academic training. She shares how her team at UAB develops and ships radioisotopes globally, advances novel radiopharmaceuticals through clinical trials, and trains the next generation of radiochemists—from undergrads to postdocs. Dr. Lapi also discusses the critical workforce shortage in the field, emphasizing the need for new training models and stronger partnerships between academia and industry.

Dr. Lapi highlights the importance of early outreach, the evolving academic mindset around careers in industry, and how radiopharmaceuticals are redefining cancer care through theranostics. The episode wraps up with a forward-looking discussion on what the future could hold for the field, the importance of sustained federal research funding, and why she believes we’re just scratching the surface of what radiopharmaceuticals can achieve.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(01:53) Suzanne Lapi’s Role at UAB
• *(03:28) The Growing Field of Radiopharmaceuticals
• *(04:45) Workforce Challenges in Radiopharmaceuticals
• *(07:52) Industry and Academia Collaboration
• *(10:08) Training the Next Generation
• *(27:33) Exciting Developments in Radiotherapeutics
• *(29:38) Future of Radiopharmaceuticals

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Suzanne on LinkedIn

Visit UAB’s Department of Radiology

Talkradioisotopes.com

—----

On this episode of Talk Radioisotopes, Scott and Sarah are joined by Dr. Shamar Young, Chief Medical Officer at TeleDaaS and Division Chief of Interventional Radiology at the University of Arizona.

The discussion explores Dr. Young’s journey into interventional radiology, his expertise in Yttrium-90 (Y90) therapy, and the evolving role of precision dosimetry in radiopharmaceutical treatments. He highlights the challenges of implementing personalized dosimetry, the benefits of outsourcing these services through TeleDaaS, and the growing impact of Theranostics in cancer care.

Dr. Young also shares insights into patient perceptions of radiation therapy, the rapid advancements in radiopharmaceutical research, and the increasing demand for personalized treatment approaches. The episode wraps up with a look at the future of radiopharmaceuticals, the barriers hospitals face in adopting new treatments, and what’s next for the field over the next five years.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(01:47) Revolutionizing Patient Care
• *(04:14) TeleDaaS: Dosimetry as a Service
• *(14:03) Patient Perspectives and Misconceptions
• *(17:10) Clinical Trials and Future of Radiopharmaceuticals
• *(21:59) Challenges and Future Outlook

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Shamar on LinkedIn

Visit TeleDaaS

Talkradioisotopes.com

—----

In this episode of Talk Radioisotopes, hosts Scott and Sarah welcome Bruno Paquin, CEO of AtomVie Global Radiopharma.

Bruno delves into the complexities and advancements of the radiopharmaceutical industry. The discussion highlights AtomVie’s role as a leading contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), their cutting-edge work in cancer care, and the innovative new facility being built in Hamilton, Ontario. 

Key topics include isotope sourcing, the development and scaling of radiopharmaceutical processes, logistic challenges, and the future of the industry. Bruno also addresses the demand for newer isotopes, the importance of early-stage collaboration, and the need to move radiopharmaceuticals up the treatment line for better patient outcomes.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(02:04) AtomVie: A Unique CDMO
• *(06:17) Isotope Production vs. Manufacturing
• *(13:07) When Good Science meets Good Infrastructure
• *(15:16) AtomVie's New Facilities and Their Impact
• *(23:08) From Hamilton, Ontario to Point B
• *(30:48) Demand for Once-Theoretical Isotopes
• *(33:57) Bruno's Outlook on the Future of Isotope Supply

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Bruno on LinkedIn

Visit AtomVie

Talkradioisotopes.com

--------

On this episode of Talk Radioisotopes, hosts Scott Larrivee and Sarah Scouten interview Arjun Murthy, co-founder of Maven Bio, an AI-driven biopharma market intelligence platform. 

They explore how Arjun's background, along with Maven Bio's technology, is transforming data analysis and research in the biopharma sector. Key topics include how AI is aiding radiopharmaceutical research, the importance of robust supply chains, and potential future developments in cancer treatment. Arjun shares insights on the role of AI in competitive intelligence, market research, and product planning within the complex biopharma industry.

-----

Time Stamps:

• *(02:04) What Can Consultants and Platforms Add to the Conversation?
• *(06:06) AI: A Synthesis of Intelligence
• *(13:34) Maven Bio's Start with Y Combinator
• *(16:34) Digging into Radiopharmaceutical Data
• *(20:35) M&A and Supply Chain in 2025
• *(25:22) The Next Five Years in Radiopharma

-----

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

------

Links:

Follow Arjun on LinkedIn

Visit Maven Bio

Talkradioisotopes.com

-----

On this episode, hosts Scott and Sarah sit down with Shaemus Gleason, Executive Vice President at Clarity Pharmaceuticals.

The discussion highlights Shaemus's journey through the radiopharmaceutical industry, Clarity's innovations, and breakthroughs involving copper-based compounds for cancer treatment. 

Shaemus shares insights on the importance of chelators, supply chain logistics, and diagnostic imaging, emphasizing the need for universal patient access and the evolution of personalized medicine. The episode concludes with an optimistic outlook on the industry's future and things to look out for in the future.

—-----

Time Stamps:

• *(01:18) Building a Career in Radiopharma
• *(05:54) Racing against the half-life
• *(09:17) Clarity and Chelation
• *(14:52) Theranostic Parings
• *(20:19) Picking Winners: The Pathway to Commercial Development
• *(27:19) What Makes A "Good Responder"?
• *(30:36) Making it Easy for the Patient
• *(39:01) The Renaissance of Radiopharma

--------

‘Talk Radioisotopes: Going Nuclear on Cancer’ is brought to you by Nusano, a physics company whose breakthrough technologies are poised to help supply the fight against cancer and enable innovation across multiple industries. Find out more at Nusano.com.

--------

Links:

Follow Shaemus on LinkedIn

Visit Clarity Pharmaceuticals

Talkradioisotopes.com

—----