Advertise on podcast: The Bioinventors Podcast

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Joseph Hirsch shares his journey from mechanical engineering student to R&D engineer at Medtronic, offering insights into the medical device industry, career development, and the importance of networking and adaptability. Topics Career path in biomedical engineering Skills developed in college for industry success Navigating FDA regulations and product development Importance of networking and mentorship Remote work in engineering fields Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-hirsch-8ab5a1107/ Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Maria Shorbokova shares her journey through neuroengineering, the intricacies of deep brain stimulation, and advice for aspiring biomedical engineers. Discover how interdisciplinary skills and passion can lead to impactful careers in neuromodulation. Key topics Neuroengineering research and career path Deep brain stimulation (DBS) and its applications Adaptive brain stimulation and bidirectional systems Interdisciplinary education in biomedical engineering Challenges and opportunities in neural data analysis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-k-shcherbakova/ Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Melissa Durham shares her journey into pharmacy, her work in pain management, and insights on the future of healthcare and AI. She emphasizes the importance of education, compassion, and innovation in advancing medical practice. key  topics Pathway to pharmacy and pain management Role of education and mentorship in healthcare Challenges and opportunities in chronic pain treatment Impact of AI on medical practice and education Importance of compassion and understanding in healthcare takeaways Pharmacists can play a crucial role in pain management through collaborative practice. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for effective chronic pain treatment. AI can be a powerful tool for education and clinical support when used strategically. Understanding patient suffering requires compassion and awareness of stigma. Continuous learning and adaptability are vital in healthcare innovation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Melissa Durham 02:52 The Journey to Pharmacy and Pain Management 05:40 Education and Career Pathways in Healthcare 09:19 Advice for High School and Undergraduate Students 12:11 Understanding Chronic Pain and Its Challenges 14:39 The Stigma Surrounding Chronic Pain 17:35 Multidisciplinary Approaches to Pain Management 20:06 The Role of AI in Healthcare 25:00 Final Thoughts and Messages for the Younger Generation  resources University of Southern California, Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences - https://pharmacy.usc.edu/ Southern California Outreach for Pharmacy Education - https://pharmacy.usc.edu/outreach/  guest links https://www.thepainpharmacist.com/ linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadurhampharmd/ Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Bilal, an interventional cardiologist and entrepreneur, shares his journey into the supplement industry, focusing on gut microbiome health and cardiovascular risk reduction. He discusses how to identify trustworthy supplements, the science behind microbiome health, and practical tips for improving gut health at home. TOPICS Gut microbiome's role in health and disease How to evaluate supplement quality and efficacy Practical steps to improve gut health at home Is extending longevity possible? TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Bilal and His Journey 03:01 The Supplement Industry Landscape 05:53 Understanding the Gut Microbiome 08:50 Improving Gut Health and Dietary Recommendations 12:03 The Role of LDL and Cardiovascular Health 14:45 Lila Health's Unique Approach 17:53 Longevity and Health Insights 20:55 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs RESOURCES Lylah health: https://lylahhealth.com/ PubMed - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ European Society of Cardiology Journal - https://www.escardio.org/Publications/Journal-of-the-European-Society-of-Cardiology American College of Cardiology Journal - https://www.jacc.org/ guest links https://www.linkedin.com/in/bilal-ahmed-md-mba-305372279/ https://www.instagram.com/brwnmgk/ Support the show

Send us Fan Mail   In this episode, James Oliver, founder of Atlas Bar, shares his entrepreneurial journey, from ideation to product launch, emphasizing low-cost experimentation, product differentiation, and the importance of authentic testing. He discusses the challenges of creating a high-quality, clean protein bar and offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially students. Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Food Innovation, Protein Bars, Startup Tips, Product Testing, Low-Cost Launches, Food Science, Business Strategy, Health & Nutrition, Startup Advice Topics: Low-cost product development and testing Creating a differentiated, clean-label protein bar The importance of market research and validation Overcoming formulation challenges in food product development Using clinical testing to validate health claims Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Atlas Bar and James Oliver 00:58 The Motivation Behind Starting Atlas Bar 04:03 Identifying Market Needs and Product Development 08:31 Unique Selling Proposition of Atlas Bar 11:15 Overcoming Doubts and Challenges in Entrepreneurship 12:00 The Journey from Zero to Profitability 13:35 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 16:32 Misconceptions About Food Entrepreneurship 18:04 The 100-Mile Challenge and Product Authenticity 20:01 Clinical Testing and Health Benefits of Atlas Bar 22:16 Marketing Strategies and Consumer Awareness 24:12 Final Thoughts and Advice for the Younger Generation  resources Atlas Bar - https://atlasbar.com Anti Chocolate - https://anti.chocolate guest links Website - https://atlasbar.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/jamesoliver Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Brian Williams shares his mission to revolutionize safety in contact sports, especially football, through innovative helmet technology that prevents catastrophic head and neck injuries. Discover his journey from personal experiences to groundbreaking inventions and learn how raising awareness can drive industry change. keywords sports safety, helmet innovation, concussion prevention, CTE, injury mitigation, youth sports safety, NFL, helmet technology, brain injury, safety innovation key  topics Helmet design innovation for injury prevention The science behind head and neck injuries in sports Industry challenges in adopting new safety technology Titles Revolutionizing Sports Safety: The Helmet Innovation That Could Save Lives From Personal Injury to Industry Change: Brian Williams' Mission to Prevent Catastrophic Head Injuries  sound bites "NFL is a money-making machine, and they don't want interference." "Current helmets only prevent skull fractures, not concussions." "We can put men on the moon, but can't protect our kids?" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Brian Williams 02:06 Brian's Mission: Raising Awareness on CTE 12:00 Innovative Solutions for Head Injury Prevention 19:29 Validation and Support from Experts 20:43 Spreading the Word: Community Engagement resources Triaxis Protection System - https://www.triaxisprotectionsystem.com/ Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of BioInventors, we talk with Hamid Ghanadan about why great science alone isn’t enough—and how communication and storytelling shape success in science. Why data doesn’t actually change people’s minds The role of psychology in scientific decision-making How storytelling makes science more impactful The difference between skepticism vs. curiosity (and why it matters) Simple ways to engage your audience (even at poster sessions) Why many scientists struggle with communication and how to fix it Great scientists aren’t just smart—they’re great storytellers Communication is what turns discovery → impact You don’t persuade people with facts—you guide them into curiosity Asking the right question can be more powerful than explaining everything Who This Is For: Students in science or engineering Aspiring biotech founders Researchers presenting their work Anyone who wants to communicate ideas more effectively “It doesn’t matter how groundbreaking your discovery is, if no one understands or accepts it, your job as a scientist isn’t finished.” Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the BioInventors Podcast, Paeto sits down with Cameron Sabet, a third-year medical student at Georgetown University, epidemiology researcher, and biotech investor. Cameron shares his unconventional journey into research, how he analyzes millions of patient records, and what he’s learned from investing in early-stage biotech companies. The conversation spans big data in medicine, AI, genetics, bioengineering, and the shifting role of physicians — offering both practical advice for students and high-level insights into where healthcare is headed. In this episode, we cover: Cameron’s path into epidemiology and publishing — how he turned classwork into Lancet publicationsLarge-scale medical research using national databases (NIS, NISQIP)Redivis & cloud-based data analysis for running studies on millions of patientsApplying finance and regression modeling to healthcare dataThe role of genetics and bioengineering in the future of medicineLong-acting drug delivery systems (half hydrophobic, half hydrophilic pills)What it takes to be a biotech venture investor“Smelling BS” in startups and common red flags in healthcare companiesLessons from Theranos and other biotech failuresAI in medicine — what might be automated vs. what remains humanThe future of physicians, mid-level providers, and healthcare leadershipHow students can access high-level medical knowledge through podcasts, networks, and research communitiesWhether you’re a student, aspiring researcher, or curious about the intersection of medicine, technology, and investing, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how healthcare innovation really happens. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of BioInventors, we sit down with Dr. Kevin Smith, medical practitioner and founder of the Chronic Condition Center in Pittsburgh, to explore a different way of thinking about health and disease. Dr. Smith introduces functional medicine, an approach that focuses on identifying and fixing the root causes of chronic illness rather than simply managing symptoms with medication. We discuss how nutrition, gut health, metabolic balance, and lifestyle choices play a central role in long-term health — and why many chronic conditions fail to improve under traditional, drug-centered care. The conversation also dives into: The difference between acute vs. chronic careCommon nutrient deficiencies and absorption issuesWhy no single diet works for everyoneThe hidden risks of polypharmacy (taking multiple drugs)When medications and surgery are truly necessary — and when they aren’tHow patients can become better advocates for their own healthThis episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about preventive medicine, holistic health, or understanding how everyday habits shape long-term well-being. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Mark's Website and supplements: mybrainrestore.com In this second episode with returning guest Mark Burnett, founder of MyBrainRestore, we dive deeper into his personal recovery journey from stage 3 Parkinson’s disease and the science behind the supplement protocol he developed. Mark explains: The key ingredients in his formulation and why sourcing and species specificity matter How the supplement is designed to support the glymphatic system, the brain’s waste-clearing pathway His self-experiment protocol, including dosing, timing, and why nighttime use may matter What changes (and didn’t change) in his diet, exercise, and lifestyle during recovery How he tracked progress both clinically and biologically, including amyloid beta blood markers Considerations for people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or on neurological medications The difference between preventive vs therapeutic use, especially for those with a family history of neurodegenerative disease Thoughts on creatine, muscle strength, and neurological conditionsMark also speaks directly to patients and caregivers, sharing why accessibility, simplicity, and real-world usability were central to how the product was designed. This episode is a deep, candid discussion at the intersection of personal experimentation, neuroscience, supplements, and patient-driven innovation—offering insights for patients, caregivers, students, and anyone interested in unconventional paths to biomedical discovery. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This episode reflects the personal experiences and opinions of the guest and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to medical treatment.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of BioInventors, we sit down with Dr. Eugene Manley Jr., biomedical engineer, cancer biologist, and founder of the SCHEQ Foundation, to unpack one of the most urgent issues in modern medicine: health equity. Dr. Manley breaks down why cancer care, especially lung cancer, continues to fail underserved communities, how stigma and misinformation delay diagnosis, and why representation and health literacy are just as critical as cutting-edge technology. We also dive into the hidden risks of vaping, the importance of early screening, and how intentional mentorship can reshape the future of the STEM workforce. This conversation is for students, future clinicians, biotech innovators, and anyone who believes healthcare should work for everyone—not just a few.  What You’ll Learn Why lung cancer is still widely misunderstood and stigmatizedHow health inequities form—and how they can be dismantledThe real health risks of vaping and environmental exposureWhy diversity in STEM and medicine directly impacts patient outcomesHow mentorship and community education change livesGet involved Learn more about health equity & community education: 🔗 SCHEQ Foundation: https://scheq.org/ Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Keywords CTE, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, mental health, veterans, wellness center, treatment access, concussion, suicide prevention, athlete health, neurological conditions Summary In this episode of the BioInventors Podcast, host Paeto Wangweera interviews William Person, a former Team USA bobsledder who has struggled with CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy). William shares his personal journey of discovering hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a non-invasive treatment that has significantly improved his condition. He discusses the alarming rates of suicide among athletes and veterans suffering from CTE and emphasizes the need for accessible treatment options. William is in the process of establishing a wellness center to provide free hyperbaric oxygen therapy to veterans and athletes, aiming to raise awareness and funds for this cause. He also highlights the importance of support from loved ones for those affected by CTE and encourages open discussions about mental health and treatment options. Takeaways William Person struggled with CTE after his bobsledding career. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has helped him significantly. Many athletes and veterans suffer from CTE-related issues. Suicide rates among veterans and athletes are alarmingly high. William is opening a wellness center for free treatments. Access to hyperbaric oxygen therapy is often limited due to cost. Support from loved ones is crucial for those affected by CTE. There are alternative treatments being explored beyond traditional medicine. William emphasizes the importance of awareness and education about CTE. He encourages those affected to seek help and explore treatment options. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to William Person and CTE 02:57 Understanding CTE and Its Impact 05:55 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: A Personal Journey 08:51 Challenges in Accessing Treatment 11:52 Establishing a Wellness Center for Veterans 14:52 Future Technologies and Holistic Approaches 17:43 Advice for Loved Ones and Final Thoughts Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit down with Karestan, Professor of Psychiatric Epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and leader of the Broad Trauma Initiative. She shares how unexpected challenges in academia, like being forced to pivot projects after her PI was fired, became defining moments that led her to pioneer work bridging genetics and trauma. Our conversation explores how making the most of every opportunity, even those outside your original interests, can shape an entire career. We also dive into the deeper question of initiative in academia: is doing what’s asked enough, or is growth driven by wanting and creating more?  Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the BioInventors Podcast, Dr. Monique Nugent, a hospitalist and author, discusses the intricacies of hospital care, patient advocacy, and the importance of preparing for hospital stays. She shares insights from her book, 'Prescription for Admission,' which serves as a guide for patients and caregivers navigating the hospital experience. Dr. Nugent reflects on her journey to becoming a physician, the challenges faced in medical school, and the significance of understanding social determinants of health. She emphasizes the need for open conversations about end-of-life care and offers valuable advice for aspiring medical professionals. Takeaways You can prepare for a hospital stay even if it's unexpected. Having a support system is crucial during a hospital stay. It's important to think about your health care preferences in advance. Many people don't consider hospital stays until it's too late. The journey to becoming a physician can be non-linear and filled with doubts. Social determinants of health significantly impact patient care. Conversations about end-of-life care should be normalized. You have time to explore your path in medicine. It's essential to design your medical career for longevity and fulfillment. Uncomfortable conversations can lead to better understanding and support. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hospital Care 03:00 Navigating Hospital Stays 05:55 The Journey to Becoming a Physician 11:54 Overcoming Doubts in Medical School 17:59 Social Determinants of Health 20:50 Conversations About End-of-Life Care 23:59 Final Advice for Aspiring Physicians Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Mark Burnett shares his personal health journey, detailing his battle with stage three Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. He discusses his proactive approach to finding a solution, which led him to a Japanese university study that successfully cured mice of these neurological diseases. Mark reveals how he sourced the key ingredient from the study and began manufacturing it for his own use, resulting in significant improvements in his health. Takeaways - Mark Burnett experienced stage three Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. - He sought alternative solutions when traditional medicine failed. - A Japanese study inspired him to find a cure for his conditions. - He discovered a specific ingredient that showed promise in curing neurological diseases. - Mark began manufacturing the ingredient for personal use. - His health improved dramatically, going from stage three Parkinson's to stage one. - The Alzheimer's symptoms were nearly eliminated. - Proactive health management can lead to significant improvements. - Research and innovation in medicine can provide new hope. - Personal determination can drive health recovery efforts. See Mark's Website: https://mybrainrestore.com/ Support the show