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Pharmaverse Podcast

Michael Pietrack

The Pharmaverse is a leadership podcast that brings you exclusive insights from the stars of the Pharma universe. Hosted by Michael Pietrack, a top Pharma and Biotech recruiter, whose team partners with the most recognizable Pharma companies in the industry, as well as the hottest of the emerging Biotechs. In each episode, Michael sits down with influential and innovative leaders in the Pharmaceutical and related industries. Listeners will hear from stars from all sectors of the Pharmaverse and will gain valuable insights to help lead their team or structure their careers. Whether you're a current leader, an aspiring leader, or a leadership enthusiast, the Pharmaverse Podcast has something for you. Tune in and subscribe!

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S3 · E22
Monday · 15 min
How to Become an MSL & Move Into Leadership | Julie Ross, PharmD
Want to become a Medical Science Liaison (MSL) or take the next step into Medical Affairs leadership? What does it really take to stand out, get hired, and move into management? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, powered by Inside MSL, host Michael Pietrack sits down with Julie Ross, PharmD, an experienced Field Medical Affairs leader with 20 years of industry experience and 10 years in clinical practice. Julie shares practical advice for aspiring MSLs looking to break into the pharmaceutical industry and experienced Medical Science Liaisons preparing to transition into leadership. From building relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and mastering MSL interviews to developing leadership skills before earning the title, Julie explains what separates successful candidates from the competition. In This Episode: Breaking into Medical Affairs: How pharmacists and other healthcare professionals can leverage clinical expertise, networking, and professional relationships to land their first MSL role. What MSL Hiring Managers Look For: Why interpersonal skills, presentation abilities, and clinical knowledge can matter more than clinical trial experience. The Reality of Being an MSL: Why the role isn't for everyone and what aspiring MSLs should understand before transitioning into industry. Moving From MSL to Leadership: How to demonstrate leadership potential, build cross-functional influence, and prepare for a Regional Director position. Common Leadership Mistakes: Why visibility alone isn't enough and why great individual contributors don't automatically become great people leaders. Building High-Performing Medical Affairs Teams: The importance of patience, trust, team culture, and esprit de corps when stepping into management. Key Takeaway: You don't need a leadership title to start acting like a leader. Whether you're pursuing your first MSL opportunity or preparing for a management role, career advancement starts with relationships, preparation, and the ability to create meaningful impact. Chapters: 00:00 – Preview: Breaking Into Medical Affairs & Leadership 00:39 – Introduction: Meet Julie Ross, PharmD 01:28 – How to Break Into Your First MSL Role 03:12 – Networking, Speaker Bureaus & Industry Connections 04:37 – Do Clinical Trials Matter When Applying for MSL Jobs? 05:25 – Why MSL Interview Presentations Can Make or Break You 06:20 – Is the MSL Career Right for You? 06:59 – Understanding the Reality of the MSL Role 07:46 – How to Transition From MSL to Regional Director 08:10 – Start Leading Before You Have the Title 09:46 – What Aspiring MSL Leaders Get Wrong 10:57 – The Hardest Part of Moving Into Management 12:17 – How MSL Leadership Changes Your Day-to-Day Work 13:09 – Leadership Advice: Patience and Building Trust 13:31 – Creating Strong Teams Through Esprit de Corps 15:00 – Final Advice for Aspiring and Experienced MSLs About The Pharmaverse Podcast The Pharmaverse Podcast brings together leaders across the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries to share career insights, leadership strategies, and real-world experiences to help professionals grow and succeed. Hosted by Michael Pietrack and powered by Inside MSL, the podcast explores the people, skills, and strategies shaping the future of Medical Affairs. Learn More About Inside MSL Inside MSL is a connected Medical Affairs ecosystem offering career training, coaching, professional development, and community for individuals, along with comprehensive Medical Affairs services for companies. Visit: https://InsideMSL.com 🔔 Subscribe for more MSL career advice, Medical Affairs leadership insights, and conversations with pharmaceutical industry leaders. 💬 Join the conversation: What's the biggest challenge you've faced breaking into an MSL role or preparing for Medical Affairs leadership? Share your experience in the comments! #MedicalScienceLiaison #MSLCareer #MedicalAffairs #MSLLeadership #Pharmaverse
October 26 · 26 min
MSL Leadership: From Expert to Leader | Becky Martin, PhD
MSL leadership, Medical Affairs, Becky Martin, Michael Pietrack, Pharmaverse Podcast, Medical Science Liaison, MSL manager, pharma leadership, pharmaceutical industry, Medical Affairs careers, emotional intelligence, leadership development, women in leadership, MSL career development, first time manager, virtual team leadership, energy management, Medical Affairs strategy, C-suite leadership, oncology careers, hiring advice, biotech leadership, Servier
October 20 · 43 min
MSL Career Growth: Do You Really Want To Be A Manager?
In this episode of Pharmaverse for MSLs, powered by Inside MSL, host Michael Pietrack speaks with Scott Conry, PharmD, about Medical Science Liaison career development, leadership readiness, and opportunities beyond people management. Scott explains why being a top-performing MSL doesn’t automatically prepare you to lead a team. Moving into management changes your daily responsibilities, your relationship with science, and how you measure success. Before pursuing that promotion, he encourages MSLs to consider what they actually enjoy about their work. The conversation explores how lateral moves into strategy, operations, and training can expand your skills and prepare you for future opportunities. Scott also shares what distinguishes a senior MSL, how to gain leadership experience before becoming a manager, and why meaningful career growth doesn’t always come with a new title. For current leaders, Scott offers practical advice on developing employees, recognizing overlooked potential, and giving teams the clarity and autonomy they need to succeed. IN THIS EPISODE • Exploring career paths within Medical Affairs • Deciding whether people management is right for you • Why scientific expertise and leadership require different skills • Testing your leadership interest through mentoring and field rides • Preparing for the transition from individual contributor to manager • Using lateral moves to build strategic experience • Understanding promotion expectations for senior MSLs • Avoiding common mistakes when pursuing advancement • Supporting employees’ growth—even when they leave your team • Setting clear goals without micromanaging CHAPTERS 00:00 Preview: The realities of MSL leadership 01:28 Introduction to Scott Conry 02:19 Career paths for MSLs 04:00 Do you really want to manage people? 05:56 Adapting your leadership style to different people 08:01 Testing leadership through mentoring and coaching 09:48 Career growth and the pressure to get promoted 13:44 Caring about employees as people 15:22 Developing talent instead of holding it back 18:07 Preparing for your first management role 20:41 What leaders look for in future managers 22:55 Why top MSLs don’t always make the best managers 25:22 How lateral moves can help you advance 28:55 Moving from MSL to senior MSL 32:17 Mistakes to avoid when seeking a promotion 34:13 Recognizing overlooked leadership potential 37:43 The impact of choosing the right people leaders 39:48 Advice for new MSL managers 42:57 Subscribe and join the conversation What does your next career step look like: people leadership, deeper scientific expertise, or a move into strategy? Tell us in the comments. Subscribe to The Pharmaverse Podcast for more conversations on MSL careers, Medical Affairs, and leadership.
S3 · E22
October 12 · 23 min
What Every Healthcare Leader Needs to Know About Courage
Can you build an ambitious career without sacrificing the life you love? And what separates a high-performing individual contributor from someone ready to lead? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, host Michael Pietrack speaks with Dr. Amama Sadiq about women in leadership, career growth in Medical Affairs, and building teams that help others succeed. Amama shares how her father shaped her views on ambition and family, why meaningful careers don’t always follow a straight path, and how relationships helped guide her journey from clinical medicine to pharmaceutical leadership. She also explains why effective leaders ask whose perspective is missing, how to evaluate candidates beyond their résumés, and what she looks for when promoting someone into a leadership role. Looking ahead, Amama discusses how AI can expand the reach of Medical Affairs while trust, scientific judgment, and human relationships remain essential. IN THIS EPISODE • Navigating career ambition, motherhood, and family life • Supporting the next generation of women leaders • Building a support system at work and at home • Finding opportunity in a non-linear career path • Leading through listening, clarity, and inclusion • Choosing meaningful work that addresses unmet patient needs • Hiring for accountability, character, and teamwork • Demonstrating leadership readiness before a promotion • The future of Medical Affairs in the age of AI CHAPTERS 00:00 Career ambition and family: Do you have to choose? 01:23 Meet Dr. Amama Sadiq 01:59 The family influence behind her leadership 05:07 Advice for women and minority leaders 07:21 Navigating ambition, motherhood, and expectations 09:53 Building your village and following relationships 12:10 Inclusive leadership: Whose perspective is missing? 13:38 Finding clarity through patient impact 14:24 Choosing meaningful work and unmet need 16:24 Hiring beyond the résumé 18:24 The future of Medical Affairs, AI, and trust 20:22 What leaders look for before promoting you 21:41 A legacy of patient impact and opening doors 22:51 Subscribe to The Pharmaverse Podcast What do you think best demonstrates that someone is ready to lead? Share your perspective in the comments. Subscribe to The Pharmaverse Podcast for conversations with pharmaceutical and biotech leaders on leadership, career development, and the future of the industry. #MedicalAffairs #PharmaversePodcast #WomenInLeadership
October 5 · 27 min
MSL Interview Presentation: 3 Mistakes to Avoid & What Hiring Managers Want
Your MSL interview presentation reveals more than your scientific knowledge. It shows hiring managers how you communicate, handle pressure and build relationships. In this episode of **The Pharmaverse Podcast for MSLs**, host **Michael Pietrack** speaks with medical affairs consultant **Geeta, PharmD**, about three common mistakes candidates make during their final interview presentation—and how to approach it with confidence. Drawing on her experience interviewing candidates and leading Medical Science Liaison teams, Geeta explains why strong slides are only part of the equation. Hiring managers also assess your preparation, executive presence, adaptability and ability to make scientific information relevant to your audience. You’ll learn how to rehearse effectively, respect the time limit, navigate difficult questions and respond honestly when you don’t know an answer. Geeta also shares practical advice for virtual interviews, including camera presence, professional presentation and why relying on AI for live answers can undermine your credibility. **In This Episode:** - Three mistakes to avoid in your MSL interview presentation. - What hiring managers evaluate beyond scientific content. - How to research your audience and tailor your message. - Why rehearsing out loud improves confidence and delivery. - How to handle interruptions, challenging questions and unexpected changes. - Why you should leave time for discussion and Q&A. - How storytelling makes scientific presentations more engaging. - Practical tips for virtual and in-person MSL interviews. Whether you’re preparing for your first Medical Science Liaison role or pursuing your next opportunity in Medical Affairs, this episode offers practical guidance to help you demonstrate how you would perform in the field. **Subscribe for more MSL interview tips, Medical Affairs career advice and conversations with field medical leaders.** What’s the toughest question you’ve faced during an MSL interview? Share it in the comments.
S3 · E21
September 28 · 30 min
Why Most Leaders Fail at Difficult Conversations
In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, host Michael Pietrack speaks with Rajat Mishra, co-founder and CEO of Present Vivo, about how AI is changing medical affairs, scientific content creation, and the future of the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) role. Rajat explains how AI can help teams turn a single publication into presentations, posters, brochures, and other materials more quickly. But speed alone is not enough: scientific accuracy, useful context, and human review remain essential. He shares why MSLs who experiment with AI while strengthening their communication, judgment, and relationships will be better prepared for what comes next. The conversation also moves beyond technology. Rajat reflects on overcoming a childhood stutter, the mentor who changed how he worked with others, and the leadership practices he uses to build a fully remote team. In this episode: How AI can accelerate medical affairs content creation while keeping experts involved Whether AI could replace MSLs and which skills may become more valuable A practical way to start experimenting with AI in an existing workflow Why personalized communication starts with the audience’s preferences How to hire for initiative and build culture across a remote team Rajat’s leadership principles: move quickly on execution, stay patient with strategy, and remain open to changing your mind Chapters 00:00 – Preview: AI, communication, and the future of MSLs 00:44 – Meet Rajat Mishra 01:35 – Overcoming a childhood speech impediment 03:17 – A mentor’s lesson about working with people 04:40 – AI and human review in medical affairs content 08:02 – Will AI replace the MSL role? 10:52 – Skills that matter in an AI-driven industry 11:38 – How MSLs can start experimenting with AI 14:14 – Personalizing content with a “communication fingerprint” 16:55 – Rajat’s outlook on the future of AI 20:12 – Judgment, empathy, and creativity when intelligence is widely available 22:37 – Building culture on a fully remote team 25:45 – Hiring people with initiative 28:30 – Rajat’s top leadership advice Subscribe to The Pharmaverse Podcast for conversations with leaders across pharma and biotech, and share your thoughts in the comments: How are you using AI in medical affairs today?
S3 · E20
September 21 · 30 min
The AI Trap: Why MSLs Can't Rely on Automation for KOLs
Will artificial intelligence replace Medical Science Liaisons—or help them become more effective? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, host Michael Pietrack speaks with experienced Field Medical leader Annika Swenson about how MSLs and Medical Affairs teams can use AI responsibly, improve their performance and protect the human relationships at the heart of the profession. Annika shares practical ways MSLs can move beyond basic administrative tasks and use AI to prepare for KOL conversations, identify inaccurate medical information, practice difficult discussions and build customized workflows. She also explains why every AI-generated answer must be challenged, sourced and evaluated through human critical thinking. The conversation explores the risks surrounding hallucinations, outdated information, copyrighted materials and proprietary data. Annika also discusses how leaders can assess AI fluency when hiring, use AI to strengthen coaching and determine whether these tools are creating meaningful improvements—or simply adding more work. Most importantly, Annika explains why AI may expand access to medical information but cannot replace the trust, rapport and nuanced conversations that MSLs build with KOLs over time. In This Episode How MSLs can begin using AI today Why identifying AI inaccuracies can improve KOL preparation Moving beyond email summaries and administrative tasks How agentic AI can support customized MSL workflows Measuring whether AI actually improves Field Medical performance AI hallucinations, outdated sources and compliance risks Protecting proprietary and copyrighted information Whether virtual MSLs could replace human Field Medical teams Using AI to practice coaching and difficult conversations Evaluating AI fluency during the hiring process Why human trust remains the greatest advantage of an MSL Subscribe to The Pharmaverse Podcast, powered by Inside MSL, for practical insights designed to help you break into Medical Affairs, advance your MSL career and become a more effective Field Medical leader.
S3 · E20
September 14 · 38 min
The Psychology of Influence: How Great Leaders Get People to Choose Them | Christian Hansen
Why do some leaders immediately earn trust while others struggle to make an impact? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, host Michael Pietrack speaks with bestselling author and influence expert Christian Hansen about the psychology of influential communication—and how leaders can become the obvious choice without dominating the conversation or sounding “salesy.” Christian explains why influence is not simply about expertise, credentials or having the best solution. It is about how other people perceive your value and how they feel when they interact with you. The conversation explores why our own brains often get in the way of genuine communication, how stronger listening creates meaningful connection and why leaders should stop trying to become the hero in every situation. Instead, Christian encourages leaders to become the guide who helps employees, colleagues and clients recognize their own capabilities. You’ll also hear how small changes in language can help people feel understood, supported and confident—and why connection may become the most valuable currency in an increasingly competitive and AI-driven professional landscape. Christian is the author of The Influence Mindset and The Influence Mindset for Sales Acceleration: The 7 EQ Brain Hacks That Get People to Choose You. His work focuses on helping professionals communicate their value, influence decision-makers and become the obvious choice. Learn more about Christian Hansen and his work. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why expertise alone does not make someone influential How perception shapes whether people choose you What separates master communicators from average communicators Why listening requires overcoming your own internal dialogue How to make another person feel genuinely heard The difference between being the hero and being the guide How emotional language creates stronger connections than facts alone Why leaders should praise character attributes—not only behaviors How language can change the story people tell about themselves Why connection is becoming a competitive advantage Practical phrases leaders can use to build confidence and trust How stronger relationships can improve retention and performance Whether you lead a pharmaceutical team, work in biotech, manage client relationships or want to communicate your value more effectively, this episode offers practical strategies you can apply immediately. Subscribe to The Pharmaverse Podcast for more conversations with influential leaders across pharma, biotech, medical affairs and the wider life sciences industry. Watch the full episode, share your biggest takeaway in the comments and tell us: What makes someone truly influential? #Leadership #Influence #CommunicationSkills #PharmaLeadership #ExecutiveLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #PersonalBrand #BiotechLeadership #ThePharmaverse #ChristianHansen
S3 · E19
September 7 · 19 min
6 Common MSL Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them | Field Medical Career Advice
What separates a good MSL from a trusted scientific partner? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, Michael Pietrack sits down with Gerard Diesenroth, PharmD, a field medical leader with experience building high-performing MSL teams, leading MSL training, and supporting multiple drug launches. Gerard breaks down six common mistakes Medical Science Liaisons make—in KOL engagements, at medical conferences, and within their own organizations—and shares practical ways to improve. You’ll learn why MSLs should avoid the “data dump,” how to build long-term KOL relationships, how to approach conferences with a clear strategy, and why timely insight-sharing can help shape medical strategy across pharma and biotech. Key topics include: Why field medical’s real currency is insight, not airtime How to make KOL conversations more valuable and peer-to-peer The importance of consistent, non-transactional relationship building How MSLs can prepare strategically for medical congresses Capturing and quickly sharing insights after conferences Collaborating compliantly with medical, commercial, clinical, and R&D teams Why MSLs are a critical feedback loop between physicians and headquarters How aspiring and current MSLs can grow into strategic leaders Whether you are breaking into medical affairs, developing as an MSL, or leading a field medical team, this conversation offers practical guidance for creating stronger relationships, better insights, and greater impact. Subscribe to The Pharmaverse for more conversations with the leaders shaping pharma, biotech, and medical affairs.
S3 · E18
August 31 · 29 min
Why Most Leaders Fail at Difficult Conversations (feat. Liz Croft)
Catch the latest Pharmaverse Podcast episode for expert insights on the pharmaceutical industry. Get clear perspectives on current trends. This episode features a focused discussion on key developments within the pharmaceutical sector. If you are looking for professional commentary and industry analysis, this conversation provides a direct look at the topics shaping the field today. We bring together experienced voices to break down complex subjects into understandable points for anyone tracking these changes. Whether you are a professional or simply interested in the business of medicine, this episode offers valuable context. We explore the Pharmaverse Podcast topics through candid interviews, ensuring you walk away with a better grasp of the current landscape. Each segment is designed to clarify the nuances of the industry without unnecessary jargon. Subscribe for weekly pharma industry insights and comment below with which future topics you want us to cover next.
August 25 · 16 min
4 Strategies to Become an “Exceeds Expectations” MSL | Kathleen Frezza, PharmD
4 Strategies to Become an “Exceeds Expectations” MSL | Kathleen Frezza, PharmD What separates an MSL who simply meets expectations from one who consistently exceeds them? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, powered by Inside MSL, host Michael Pietrack sits down with Kathleen Frezza, PharmD, a Medical Affairs leader with more than 20 years of experience as an MSL, MSL manager, and scientific director. Kathleen shares four practical strategies MSLs can use to stand out, become more valuable to their teams, and position themselves for greater career opportunities. 📙 In This Episode: ✔ Take initiative without overextending yourself — Master your core responsibilities and metrics first, then look for opportunities to expand your experience through training, speaker programs, Medical Communications, and cross-functional projects. ✔ Make your career interests known — Your manager can't help you pursue opportunities they don't know you want. Learn how to communicate your career goals during check-ins and performance planning. ✔ Stay positive and bring solutions — High-performing MSLs don't just identify problems. They choose their battles, think constructively, and bring potential solutions to challenging situations. ✔ Track your accomplishments — Keep an ongoing record of projects, contributions, wins, and positive feedback instead of trying to remember everything at annual review time. Michael also shares a simple but useful strategy: create a "kudos folder" where you save positive feedback and accomplishments throughout the year. 🚀 Go Beyond Your Job Description One of Kathleen's most valuable lessons is learning to recognize your manager's unspoken needs. If you hear your manager mention something that needs to get done, don't always wait to be assigned the task. Identify where you can help, create a first draft or potential solution, and demonstrate that you're listening and willing to take ownership. That kind of initiative can show that you're thinking beyond your individual responsibilities and considering the needs of the entire team. 🎯 Breaking Into an MSL Career Kathleen also addresses a common challenge for aspiring Medical Science Liaisons: "How do I get MSL experience when every MSL position requires experience?" Her advice is to stay persistent and remain open to therapeutic areas outside your exact specialty. Contract and consulting MSL opportunities can also provide valuable industry experience and help strengthen your future applications. 📙 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐔𝐒: ▶ Website: [https://www.kbic.com/recruiting/] ▶ LinkedIn: [ https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpietrack] ▶ Have you seen all of our playlists? [https://www.youtube.com/@ThePharmaversePodcast/playlists ] ▶ Also, join the private LinkedIn Job Board: MSL Job Board 📙Hashtags: #shorts #pharmaverse #leadership #healthcare #innovation #shorts #pharmaverse #leadership #healthcare #healthcareinnovation #podcastclip #mindset #courage #leadershipdevelopment #innovationleadership #MSL #MedicalScienceLiaison #MedicalAffairs #Pharma #Biotech #PharmaCareers #MSLCareer #MedicalAffairsCareer #CareerDevelopment #Leadership #ProfessionalDevelopment #LifeSciences #MSLTraining #PharmaversePodcast #KathleenFraser 📙Keywords: pharmaversePodcast, healthcareLeadership, innovationMindset, difficultConversations, courageInLeadership, healthcareInnovation, leadershipGrowth, honestCommunication, executiveMindset, MSL career advice, how to become a successful MSL, Medical Science Liaison career, MSL exceeds expectations, MSL performance tips, MSL career growth, Medical Affairs career development, MSL leadership skills, aspiring MSL advice, how to stand out as an MSL, MSL manager advice, Medical Affairs professional development, MSL interview and career tips, pharmaceutical career advice, Kathleen Fraser PharmD 📙 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎𝐒: ▶ • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkA-Rz6BM9o&t=0s ▶ • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkA-Rz6BM9o&t=0s ▶ • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0bsuyHOof8&t=0s *Thanks for visiting*
S3 · E17
August 20 · 27 min
Dr. Tania Small: Why Medical Affairs Is the “Special Ops” of Pharma
Dr. Tania Small: Why Medical Affairs Is the “Special Ops” of Pharma What if Medical Affairs stopped being viewed as a “bridge” and started being recognized as an active force shaping drug development from beginning to end? In this episode of **The Pharmaverse Podcast**, host **Michael Pietrack** sits down with **Dr. Tania Small**, Senior Vice President and Head of Medical Affairs at Bristol Myers Squibb and host of the **Doctors Unscripted** podcast, for a deeply personal conversation about patient impact, Medical Affairs, pharma leadership, innovation, and legacy. Dr. Small shares the heartbreaking experience from her career as a pediatric hematologist-oncologist that ultimately pushed her from clinical medicine into drug development. After losing a young patient not to her disease, but to treatment toxicity, Dr. Small found herself asking a bigger question: **How can we do better?** That experience continues to influence how she approaches her work in pharma today. The conversation then challenges one of the industry's most familiar descriptions of Medical Affairs. Dr. Small rejects the idea that Medical Affairs is simply a “bridge” between functions. Instead, she describes Medical Affairs as the **nucleus** and even the **“special ops” of pharma**, with the potential to influence everything from unmet need and clinical development to physician engagement, new indications, gaps in care, and ultimately patient outcomes. Central to her philosophy is what she calls **patient-driven science**: developing medicines around the needs of patients rather than developing an asset first and attempting to retrofit it to the patient later. Dr. Small also shares leadership lessons from her mentor, Dr. Mitchell Cairo, including why leaders need to take smart risks, search relentlessly for solutions, embrace failure as part of innovation, and give people at every level permission to contribute. For current and aspiring pharma leaders, her message is simple: **keep learning, trust your instincts, speak up, take the jump, and never lose sight of the patient on the other end of the work.** ### Timestamps **00:00** – The patient story that changed Dr. Small's career **01:30** – Where Dr. Small gets her seemingly endless energy **03:11** – From pediatric oncology to pharma **05:33** – When treatment toxicity changes everything **07:19** – “You don't leave the patient” when you enter pharma **09:42** – Why Medical Affairs must explain its value **10:11** – Why Dr. Small rejects the “bridge” analogy **11:06** – Medical Affairs as the nucleus and “special ops” of pharma **13:00** – Unmet needs, patient journeys and drug development **13:40** – Signal seeking and finding new opportunities for medicines **14:00** – Introducing patient-driven science **14:50** – What Nike and Michael Jordan can teach pharma **16:05** – Medical Affairs as a vessel for patient impact **16:45** – Leadership lessons from Dr. Mitchell Cairo **18:48** – Innovation, smart risks and failing forward **21:00** – Advice for the next generation of healthcare leaders **22:39** – Why every voice in the room matters **24:10** – What does Dr. Small want her legacy to be? **25:25** – “Did I make a difference?” Subscribe for more conversations with leaders across pharmaceutical, biotech and Medical Affairs.
August 10 · 19 min
New MSL? 6 Ways to Impress Your Manager in Your First 90 Days
Starting a new Medical Science Liaison role? Your first 90 days can shape how your manager and team see you long after onboarding ends. In this episode of the **Pharmaverse Podcast**, host Michael Pietrack sits down with **Lee Ann McDowell, PharmD**, an experienced medical affairs leader with 15 years in industry, including 11 years as an MSL and six years leading MSL teams. Lee Ann shares **six practical ways new MSL hires can impress their managers, stand out during onboarding, and build a strong foundation for long-term success.** You'll learn: • Why being prepared means more than completing your assigned training • How to master your product, competitor data, science, tables, and graphs • Why managers notice MSLs who are proactive instead of waiting for direction • How curiosity can separate an average new hire from a standout MSL • Why going beyond the training manual matters • How setting goals demonstrates initiative and ownership • Why your existing skills can bring unexpected value to an MSL team • How speaking up and contributing during team meetings builds trust • What MSL leaders notice when a new hire isn't keeping pace • How to make the most of your critical first 90 days Lee Ann also shares the story of a candidate whose first presentation fell flat, but who took feedback, studied, improved, and ultimately became one of the best MSL hires she ever made. Whether you're an **aspiring MSL preparing to break into Medical Affairs**, a newly hired MSL navigating onboarding, or an experienced MSL joining a new organization, these strategies can help you demonstrate your value from day one. **The six takeaways:** 1. Be prepared 2. Be proactive 3. Go beyond what's given 4. Set goals 5. Let your skills shine 6. Jump in and contribute What do you think is the most important thing a new MSL can do during their first 90 days? Share your experience in the comments. Subscribe to the Pharmaverse Podcast for more conversations about MSL careers, Medical Affairs, leadership, professional development, and succeeding in pharma and biotech.
S3 · E16
August 3 · 29 min
The Leadership Mindset Every Medical Affairs Leader Needs | Kim Tran
What does it take to become an exceptional leader in pharmaceutical and biotech organizations? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, Michael Pietrack sits down with Kim Tran, PharmD, Senior Vice President and Head of Medical Affairs, for a powerful conversation about leadership, resilience, trust, and creating cultures where people thrive. Kim shares the remarkable story of her parents escaping Vietnam by boat as refugees and how their resilience, humility, and compassion shaped her leadership philosophy. She explains why trust is the foundation of every successful team, how leaders should approach inherited organizations, and why transparency and communication matter more than ever. The conversation also explores what separates outstanding Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) from average performers, the importance of enterprise thinking, how to interview for critical thinking instead of rehearsed answers, and why leadership isn't about titles but about serving others. Whether you're an aspiring MSL, Medical Affairs professional, pharmaceutical executive, or anyone leading teams in healthcare, this episode is filled with practical leadership advice you can apply immediately. In This Episode You'll Learn: ✔ How childhood experiences shape authentic leadership ✔ Why compassion and empathy create stronger teams ✔ Building trust when inheriting an existing team ✔ The importance of transparency and communication as a leader ✔ Why representation and mentorship matter in executive leadership ✔ Advice for first-time managers entering leadership roles ✔ The qualities of exceptional Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) ✔ How enterprise thinking makes better Medical Affairs professionals ✔ What hiring managers really evaluate during interviews ✔ Why critical thinking outweighs perfect answers ✔ Leadership lessons on serving others instead of chasing titles
S2 · E21
August 3 · 19 min
Season 2, Episode 21: A Century of X-Rays with Margaret Yu
Season 2, Episode 21: A Century of X-Rays with Margaret Yu In this powerful episode of the Pharmaverse Podcast, host Michael Pietrack sits down with Dr. Margaret Yu, Chief Medical Officer at ARTBIO, an oncology company leading the charge in Radioligand Therapy (RLT) to revolutionize cancer care. Dr. Yu unpacks the 130-year history of radiation in medicine — from the discoveries of Marie and Pierre Curie to the approval of modern alpha isotopes — and explains how ARTBIO is developing new radioisotope-linked therapies to transform precision oncology. She also shares deeply personal stories from her medical training, lessons from mentorship, and how being a “language brain in a science-driven world” shapes her communication and leadership approach. In the closing moments, Dr. Yu offers invaluable leadership advice on resilience, growth, and embracing challenges for anyone navigating their first leadership role in Pharma or biotech. Whether you’re a Pharma executive, biotech innovator, or medical professional, this conversation delivers both inspiration and insight into the future of cancer treatment and scientific leadership. 🎧 Tune in and subscribe for more conversations with the brightest minds in life sciences. 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐔𝐒: ▶ Website: [https://www.kbic.com/recruiting/] ▶ LinkedIn: [ https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelpietrack] ▶ Have you seen all of our playlists? [https://www.youtube.com/@ThePharmaversePodcast/playlists ] ▶ Also, join the private LinkedIn Job Board: MSL Job Board
July 27 · 20 min
Why KOLs Trust Some MSLs... And Ignore Others | John Chandy on Building Lasting Relationships
How do the best Medical Science Liaisons build lasting relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs)? In this episode of the Pharmaverse Podcast, host Michael Pietrack sits down with experienced field medical leader John Chandy to discuss the relationship-building skills that separate exceptional MSLs from everyone else. John shares practical strategies for developing authentic rapport with healthcare providers, creating long-term trust, gathering meaningful medical insights, and avoiding the common mistakes that damage credibility. Whether you're an aspiring MSL preparing for interviews or an experienced Medical Science Liaison looking to strengthen KOL relationships, this episode is packed with actionable advice. In this episode you'll learn: Why "Relationships, Relationships, Relationships" are the foundation of MSL success How to build rapport with KOLs without appearing transactional Practical conversation starters that create authentic connections Using AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini to prepare for HCP meetings The biggest mistakes that quietly destroy trust with healthcare providers Why follow-through is one of the most important qualities hiring managers evaluate How strong relationships lead to higher-quality field insights The importance of listening more than speaking during scientific exchange Advice for aspiring Medical Science Liaisons interviewing for their first MSL role If you're pursuing a career in Field Medical Affairs, Medical Science Liaison, Medical Affairs Leadership, or Pharmaceutical Medical Affairs, this conversation provides real-world guidance from someone who has hired and mentored successful MSLs. 👍 Like, subscribe, and share if you're looking for practical Medical Affairs career advice and insights from industry leaders.
July 20 · 32 min
The Delegation Mistake That Destroys Team Motivation | Conor Neill on Leadership
Why do some leaders inspire high-performing teams while others unintentionally destroy motivation? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast, host Michael Pietrack welcomes internationally respected leadership expert Conor Neill for a powerful conversation on leadership, communication, delegation, motivation, resilience, and building trust. Conor explains why leadership isn't about having all the answers—it's about helping people move forward through uncertainty. He shares practical frameworks for evaluating team members based on motivation and competence, explains the critical difference between effective delegation and simply dumping work on employees, and reveals why recognition remains one of the most overlooked leadership responsibilities. The discussion also explores authentic storytelling, journaling for better decision-making, empathy, purposeful action, and the influence of Viktor Frankl on finding meaning during difficult seasons. Whether you lead Medical Science Liaisons, Medical Affairs teams, biotech organizations, healthcare professionals, or any business team, these leadership principles apply across every industry. 📙 What You Will Learn: ✔ The delegation mistake that quietly destroys team motivation ✔ How to use the Motivation vs. Competence Framework to develop people ✔ Why storytelling builds trust before driving change ✔ The difference between delegating and simply assigning work ✔ Why recognition is one of a leader's most powerful responsibilities ✔ How authentic communication strengthens leadership ✔ Why journaling improves decision-making during uncertainty ✔ How empathy helps people grow through challenges ✔ Why action creates results while intention creates comfort ✔ How purpose and resilience help leaders navigate difficult seasons 💡 Great leaders don't create followers—they create confident, motivated people who continue growing long after the conversation ends. 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, like, subscribe, and share it with a leader who wants to build stronger, more motivated teams.
S1 · E1
July 13 · 16 min
Jamie Edwards on What Separates Top-Tier MSLs From Average Ones
How do top Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) prepare for successful KOL meetings before they ever walk through the door? In this episode of The Pharmaverse Podcast for MSLs, host Michael sits down with veteran Medical Science Liaison Jamie Edwards, who shares the pre-call planning strategies that helped him build trusted relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) over a 20+ year MSL career. Jamie breaks down the research, preparation, and relationship-building techniques that separate average MSLs from exceptional ones. From identifying what your organization actually needs to learn, to researching a KOL's clinical interests and personal passions, this conversation provides practical advice that every aspiring and experienced MSL can apply immediately. You'll also learn why relationship-building begins long before the first meeting—and why respecting a physician's time may be one of the most valuable skills an MSL can develop. In this episode you'll learn: How to prepare for your first KOL meeting The MSL pre-call planning framework What information is actually worth researching How to build authentic rapport with KOLs Finding common ground without forcing small talk Best practices for first outreach emails and introductions How to earn follow-up meetings naturally Why flexibility matters more than rigid call plans CRM and Veeva documentation best practices How top MSLs build lasting scientific relationships Whether you're an aspiring MSL, a new Medical Science Liaison, or a seasoned field medical professional looking to strengthen your KOL engagement strategy, this episode is packed with practical insights you can implement immediately. Subscribe for more conversations with Medical Affairs leaders, experienced MSLs, and industry experts. #MSL #MedicalScienceLiaison #MedicalAffairs #KOL #FieldMedical #Pharma #Biotech #ClinicalResearch #Healthcare #PharmaceuticalIndustry #CareerDevelopment #InsideMSL #PharmaversePodcast 📙 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐔𝐒: ▶ Website: [https://www.kbic.com/recruiting/] ▶ LinkedIn: [ / michaelpietrack ] ▶ Have you seen all of our playlists? [ / @thepharmaversepodcast ] ▶ Also, join the private LinkedIn Job Board: MSL Job Board 📙Hashtags: #shorts #pharmaverse #leadership #healthcare #innovation #shorts #pharmaverse #leadership #healthcare #healthcareinnovation #podcastclip #mindset #courage #leadershipdevelopment #innovationleadership #executiveleadership #teamcommunication #difficultconversations #professionalgrowth #healthcareleaders #workplaceleadership #changemanagement 📙Keywords: pharmaversePodcast, healthcareLeadership, innovationMindset, difficultConversations, courageInLeadership, healthcareInnovation, leadershipGrowth, honestCommunication, executiveMindset, 📙 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎𝐒: ▶ • • Season 1, Episode 3: Stepping Outside of Y... ▶ • • Season 1, Episode 3: Stepping Outside of Y... ▶ • • Season 1, Episode 4: Climbing Your Interna...
July 6 · 30 min
The Executive Mindset Separating Good Leaders from Great Ones
Leadership isn't about giving orders. It's about understanding your team, adapting your communication style, and creating an environment where people can succeed. In this episode of the Pharmaverse Podcast, Michael Pietrack sits down with Jonas Hylton, PharmD, Founder & CEO of Executive Biotech Advisors, to discuss the leadership principles he developed during more than 25 years in pharmaceutical and biotech leadership. Jonas shares practical frameworks that leaders can immediately apply to build stronger teams, improve communication, motivate employees, and become more effective managers. In this episode you'll learn: • Why the best leaders lead by example • How to truly understand your employees before setting expectations • The "See One, Do One, Teach One" leadership model • Why feedback should be personalized for every employee • The difference between Visionaries and Implementers • The 80/20 leadership rule • The power of asking "What's In It For Me?" (WIIFM) • How emotional intelligence improves leadership • Common leadership mistakes to avoid • Advice Jonas wishes he'd learned earlier in his career Whether you lead a pharmaceutical team, biotech company, healthcare organization, or any business, these leadership strategies can help you motivate employees, improve performance, and build a stronger culture. Subscribe to Pharmaverse for more conversations with pharmaceutical, biotech, and healthcare leaders sharing real-world insights that help professionals grow their careers.
June 22 · 31 min
How to Execute Strategy in Fast-Changing Industries | Mike Banville
n this episode of the Pharmaverse Podcast, Mike Banville shares powerful insights on what separates good leaders from exceptional ones. From executive communication to organizational culture, Mike explains why leadership isn’t just about vision, it’s about translating strategy into measurable execution. We explore why listening is one of the most underrated leadership skills, how successful leaders navigate uncertainty, and what it takes to build alignment across teams in fast-moving industries like biotech and healthcare. In this episode: ✔ Why listening is a leadership superpower ✔ How to turn strategy into execution ✔ Building strong organizational culture ✔ Decision-making in uncertain environments ✔ Leading through change and complexity Whether you're a biotech executive, founder, manager, or aspiring leader, this conversation offers practical frameworks you can apply immediately. Subscribe for more conversations on biotech, pharma leadership, and career growth. #Leadership #Strategy #Execution #Biotech #Pharma #Management #DecisionMaking #ExecutiveLeadership #OrganizationalCulture Show Notes / Chapters 00:00 Intro & welcome 01:42 Meet Mike Banville 04:25 Why listening matters in leadership 09:18 Strategy vs execution 15:06 Turning ideas into measurable outcomes 22:40 Building organizational alignment 30:12 Culture in remote vs in-person teams 38:55 Decision-making under uncertainty 46:20 Adaptability and navigating change 53:11 Final leadership lessons 📙 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐔𝐒: ▶ Website: [https://www.kbic.com/recruiting/] ▶ LinkedIn: [ / michaelpietrack ] ▶ Have you seen all of our playlists? [ / @thepharmaversepodcast ] ▶ Also, join the private LinkedIn Job Board: MSL Job Board 📙Hashtags: #shorts #pharmaverse #leadership #healthcare #innovation #shorts #pharmaverse #leadership #healthcare #healthcareinnovation #podcastclip #mindset #courage #leadershipdevelopment #innovationleadership #executiveleadership #teamcommunication #difficultconversations #professionalgrowth #healthcareleaders #workplaceleadership #changemanagement 📙Keywords: pharmaversePodcast, healthcareLeadership, innovationMindset, difficultConversations, courageInLeadership, healthcareInnovation, leadershipGrowth, honestCommunication, executiveMindset,

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