Weekly Impact by Lay of The Land

Episode Summary

Most people credit brilliant ideas for breakthrough companies. Dr. Christa Pawlowski, PhD, is living proof that it's the person who picks up the idea and runs with it that actually changes the world.

Christa is a biomedical engineer, co-founder of Haima Therapeutics, and operations lead at Alnair Therapeutics — two Cleveland-based companies working on a synthetic platelet analog to stop bleeding and a treatment for pulmonary hypertension and COPD, respectively. She's also a 2025 Next 25 honoree, and when I sat down with her, I quickly realized she's exactly the kind of founder my work is built for: a brilliant operator who knows that execution is 90% of the job.

We talked about the decision to bring in an external CEO for Haima while she stayed behind the scenes running operations — and why that self-awareness was one of the smartest moves she made. We also got into the Cleveland biotech ecosystem's funding gap, the creative paths Haima is pursuing to get to market faster (including a veterinary product and emergency use authorization), and what it actually takes to build a functioning team in a startup running 100 miles an hour.

The moment that stood out most to me: when Christa talked about the biggest lesson she learned as a leader. She said she didn't realize early enough how much team culture and the "soft skill side" of the business impacts outcomes — that trust between team members is the leading indicator of a high-performing organization. Dr. Christa also confirms the need and value of having an intentional operating system and culture (instead of an accidental one). Culture doesn't build itself. You have to choose your rituals, your artifacts, your language — and then actively cultivate them.

Clarity is kind. Expectations become agreements. And the best organizations are built by people who understand that operationalizing a great idea is the hardest and most important work there is.

Show Notes

Guest: Dr. Christa Pawlowski, PhD — co-founder of Haima Therapeutics, operations lead at Alnair Therapeutics, 2025 Next 25 honoree

What we cover:

• How a PhD researcher convinces her advisor to co-found a company — and what it means to be "radicalized by the data"
• The decision to bring in Mike Bruckman as CEO of Haima and why knowing you're an operator (not a front-facing CEO) is a competitive advantage, not a limitation
• Haima's synthetic platelet analog: what it does, why the military is interested, and the faster path to market through veterinary applications and emergency use authorization
• Why the Cleveland biotech ecosystem has the talent and the innovation but struggles with the middle-stage funding and the exit infrastructure needed to make it self-sustaining
• The leadership lesson Christa didn't see coming: culture is not a byproduct — it's a practice. Trust, accountability, and respecting your team's time and energy are the things that separate functional teams from burned-out ones
• Mentors who shaped her: Dr. Anirban Gupta, Lizzie Barazowski, Douglas Hay (CEO, Alnair Therapeutics), and Tim Pelora (Executive Chair, Haima Therapeutics)

Key insight from Jim: You have a culture whether you chose it or not. The question is whether it's intentional. Rituals, artifacts, and language are the three elements sociologists point to as the building blocks of culture — and every founder gets to choose them. Most don't. The ones who do build something that lasts.

Connect with Haima Therapeutics: [haimatherapeutics.com] Connect with Alnair Therapeutics: [alnairtherapeutics.com]

Keywords

biomedical engineering, Haima, entrepreneurship, team culture, mentorship, commercialization, OhioX, Next 25 award, biotech ecosystem, funding challenges, leadership

Takeaways

• Dr. Krista Pawlowski is a scientist and entrepreneur in the biotech field.
• Haima Therpeutics focuses on developing novel therapies for bleeding and other conditions.
• Team culture and soft skills are crucial for startup success.
• Recognition from the Next 25 award highlights the importance of small startups in biotech.
• Funding challenges exist in the life sciences, particularly in Ohio.
• Commercialization timelines can be accelerated with adequate funding.
• Building trust within a team enhances productivity and morale.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in personal and professional development.
• The biotech ecosystem in Ohio lacks large pharma players, impacting growth.
• Operationalizing ideas is essential for turning innovations into successful products.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christa-l-pawlowski-phd-7a34b764/

#121: Michael Bruckman (Haima Therapeutics)

https://www.layoftheland.fm/121-michael-bruckman-haima-therapeutics/

Haima Therapeutics

https://www.linkedin.com/company/haima-therapeutics/

http://www.haimatherapeutics.com/

Allinaire Therapeutics

https://www.linkedin.com/company/allinaire-therapeutics/

https://www.allinaire.com/

BioMotiv

https://www.harringtondiscovery.org/partners/biomotiv

Anirban Sen Gupta

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anirban-sen-gupta-03702bb/

Douglas Hay

https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglashay/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikebruckman/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-pelura-2aa334/

Don Pawlowski ( the husband)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmpawlowski/

In this conversation, Jim Haviland interviews Brian Adams, founder of Seven Hills Technology, as part of the Next25 recognition series. They discuss Brian's journey into technology, the vision behind his company, and the evolving landscape of software development. Brian emphasizes the importance of understanding both technical and business aspects in software engineering, the need for accountability, and the significance of building a community-focused business. They also touch on long-term thinking in entrepreneurship, the challenges of navigating future changes, and the value of mentorship.

Takeaways

Brian Adams transitioned from a passion for cars to technology.

The vision for Seven Hills Technology centers on understanding both technical and business needs.

Software development is evolving with AI, shifting the focus from coding to understanding user needs.

Accountability in software development is crucial for success.

Building a community-focused business can have a significant local impact.

Long-term thinking is essential for sustainable business growth.

Navigating future challenges in software development requires adaptability and innovation.

Doing the right thing in business often outweighs short-term financial gains.

Effective leadership involves finding the right balance between openness and professionalism.

Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and professional growth.

Mentions and Links
https://www.ohiotechnews.com/meet-next25-2025/
https://www.sevenhillstechnology.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/badams2527/
https://weeklyimpact.transistor.fm/become-a-guest-on-weekly-impact
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-gardner-sh/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevehennegan513/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-ross-183404171/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brian Adams and Seven Hills Technology

03:22 The Evolution of Software Development

06:26 Navigating AI and Software Engineering

09:16 Community Impact and Local Development

11:41 Future Challenges and Strategic Vision

14:17 Leadership Lessons and Personal Growth

18:56 Mentorship and Acknowledgments

In this conversation, Jim Haviland speaks with Patty Starr from the Health Action Council about the evolving landscape of health and healthcare, emphasizing the importance of social determinants of health and the role of employers in fostering a healthy work environment. They discuss leadership lessons, the significance of listening, and the importance of team culture in achieving organizational goals.

Takeaways

• Health is more than just healthcare; it's about creating a healthy environment.
• Employers have a significant role in supporting employee health.
• Social determinants of health account for a large portion of healthcare costs.
• Listening is a crucial leadership skill.
• Long-term planning is essential for sustainable success.
• Team culture is vital for organizational effectiveness.
• Engaged employees contribute to better organizational outcomes.
• Collaboration within teams enhances productivity and morale.
• Investing in team development fosters a positive work culture.
• Understanding employee needs can help reduce healthcare costs.

Health Action Council, social determinants of health, employer responsibility, leadership lessons, employee health, workplace culture, health care evolution, health benefits, health engagement, organizational support

In this conversation, Shane Bigelow, founder of CHAMP Titles, discusses his journey from Wall Street to leading a successful business that leverages a growth-oriented team and blockchain technology. He emphasizes the importance of hiring smart talent, fostering a culture of fulfillment, and the lessons learned in leadership. The discussion also touches on the challenges of finding the right people in a high-growth environment and the significance of mentorship in shaping effective leaders.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanemcrannbigelow/

https://www.champtitles.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnchambersjc/

Takeaways

• Shane Bigelow emphasizes the importance of hiring smart people.
• Champ Titles is known for its challenging work environment.
• Blockchain technology plays a crucial role in Champ Title's operations.
• Leadership involves empowering talented individuals to excel.
• Finding the right talent for high-growth environments is essential.
• Fulfillment in the workplace is a key motivator for employees.
• Psychological analysis and cognitive testing aid in hiring decisions.
• Cleveland's low cost of living attracts diverse talent.
• The ethos of a company significantly impacts its success.
• Mentorship shapes effective leadership and company culture.

In this episode of Weekly Impact, Jim Haviland interviews Jeff Herzog from Nexus Engineering Group. They discuss Jeff's journey from education to a successful engineering career, the lessons learned in building a business, and the importance of partnerships. Jeff shares insights on Nexus Engineering's unique approach to connecting business needs with technical expertise, as well as valuable leadership lessons and the role of mentorship in personal and professional growth.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-herzog-86835017/

https://nexusegroup.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Standard_Oil_Company_(Ohio)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-corrao-5b69b615/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-shanley-1a30635a/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-curran-1658271/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-gambill-1676624/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-smith-chpp-4011a61a/

Tony Raiche

Randy Fletcher

Takeaways

Finding a job you love is crucial for success.

Experience in managing teams without authority is valuable.

Partnerships require alignment on business vision.

Understanding the business driver behind projects is essential.

Nexus Engineering connects business needs with technical skills.

Growth in business brings both opportunities and challenges.

Leadership involves influencing others to achieve common goals.

Learning from mistakes is key to personal growth.

Mentorship plays a significant role in professional development.

A positive culture is vital for team success.

In this conversation, Jim Haviland speaks with Bradley Knapp, the leader of Clearstead, about the company's growth, the importance of culture in leadership, and the impact of mentorship in the business community. They discuss how Clearstead integrates various financial services to provide holistic advisory services to clients and the significance of a long-term focus in business strategy. Bradley shares insights on leadership lessons learned, the value of community involvement, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-knapp-cfa-caia-a4a25a4/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomhartland/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dfultoncfa/

https://clearstead.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Miller_(businessman)

https://www.linkedin.com/company/forest-city-realty-trust/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-b-summers-jr-bb40749/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McDonald_%26_Co.

https://www.layoftheland.fm/171-umberto-fedeli-round-ii-lifelong-learning-happiness-wealth-and-investing/

Takeaways

• Your assumptions are the problem.
• Culture is the most important aspect of leadership.
• Thinking multi-generational is crucial for long-term success.
• Continuous improvement mindset fosters innovation.
• Don't be afraid to fail; it's part of growth.
• Aligning culture among partners is essential.
• Ownership among employees enhances client focus.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in professional development.
• Community impact is as important as business success.
• Long-term focus leads to sustainable growth.

Keywords

Bradley Knapp, Clearstead, leadership, mentorship, financial services, culture, entrepreneurship, community impact, growth, business strategy

Sound bites

"Everyone takes ownership."

"It's all about the client."

"Don't be afraid to fail."

In this conversation, Jim Haviland interviews Matt Sobel, the founder of BrandDog, a B2B growth marketing agency. They discuss the unique model of BrandDog, which operates at the intersection of marketing and private equity. Matt shares his career journey, insights on leadership, the importance of relationships, and the challenges of growing a business. He emphasizes the need for motivation within teams and the significance of saying no to opportunities that don't align with their vision. The conversation concludes with acknowledgments to his team and family for their support.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/branddog/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwsoble/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-muskin/

https://www.ghc-lp.com/

Takeaways

• BrandDog operates at the intersection of marketing and private equity.
• Matt Sobel has experience on both the agency and ownership sides.
• The agency tests products within its ecosystem before selling them externally.
• Companies undergoing transformational growth are ideal clients for BrandDog.
• Leadership involves building strong relationships and networks.
• Motivation cannot be created; it must be intrinsic.
• Saying no to opportunities is crucial for focused growth.
• Intentional culture is necessary in remote work environments.
• Mistakes are part of the learning process in business.
• Support from family and team is vital for success.

"If it's not a hell yes, it's a no."

In this conversation, Tim Dumphy from Home Genius Exteriors discusses the company's rapid growth and the importance of focusing on both customer and employee experiences. He emphasizes the need for effective communication, trust, and a strong company culture to drive success. Tim shares insights on talent acquisition, leadership, and the significance of giving back to the community, highlighting how these elements contribute to a thriving business environment.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-dunphy/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-ogrizek/

https://homegeniusexteriors.com/

In this episode of Weekly Impact, Jim Haviland speaks with Nick Stroup from North Coast Community Homes. Nick shares his journey in the nonprofit housing sector, focusing on the intersection of technology and community support for individuals with developmental disabilities. He discusses the importance of leadership, team dynamics, and learning from mistakes, while also addressing the challenges of funding and community engagement. Stroup emphasizes the significance of having a just cause and encourages listeners to get involved in their communities. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-stroup-13a6b38/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinmog/

https://ncch.org/

Takeaways

• Nick's career began in technology and evolved into nonprofit housing.
• The importance of technology in streamlining nonprofit operations.
• Leadership is about building a strong team to create impact.
• Delegation is crucial for effective management and leadership.
• Learning from mistakes is essential for growth and success.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in personal and professional development.
• Community engagement is vital for addressing funding challenges.
• A just cause motivates individuals to contribute to meaningful work.
• Engagement in work leads to greater satisfaction and impact.
• Everyone can contribute to the cause of supporting individuals with disabilities.

In this engaging conversation, Jim Haviland interviews Ashley Lawson, a third-generation entrepreneur and owner of Achieve Incentives. Ashley shares her journey from working in nonprofit organizations to taking over the family business, emphasizing the importance of team culture, mentorship, and community impact in the event planning industry. The discussion highlights the values that guide her leadership and the innovative approaches her company takes to create meaningful and impactful events.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyroselawson/

http://www.achieveincentives.com/

Takeaways

• Ashley Lawson is a third-generation entrepreneur at Achieve Incentives.
• She transitioned from nonprofit work to the family business.
• Team culture and engagement are crucial for success.
• The company focuses on impactful and socially conscious events.
• Listening to the team is a key leadership lesson.
• Values from previous generations guide current practices.
• Mentorship plays a significant role in her leadership style.
• Community engagement is a priority in event planning.
• Portugal is a trending destination for events.
• Finding joy in the journey is essential for team morale.