MSL Talk

Latest Episodes:

187. The MSL Role - Big Pharma Vs. Small Biotech Jan 09, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Sarah Ussery joins to discuss her career journey and the distinctions between working in big pharma versus small biotech companies. Sarah provides an overview of both environments, highlighting the evolution of the MSL role and the responsibilities unique to each. She explores growth opportunities and the job market for both sectors, while addressing the challenges and cultural differences encountered in each setting. The conversation includes advice for MSLs navigating their careers in 2024, with insights on resume building and choosing between large pharma and small biotech. The episode concludes with closing remarks and a call to action.

My guest today is Sarah Ussery, Medical Affairs Leader who discusses the differences in MSL function between large pharma and small biotech.

Sarah shares….

👉 What is considered Large Pharma VS Small Biotech
👉 How do MSL responsibilities differ by size of company
👉 How are MSLs evaluated differently by different companies
👉 How do the frustrations differ for MSLs in different size companies
👉 What are the cultural differences between different size companies

PLEASE sign up for the MSL Talk Podcast Newsletter here: https://www.mslmastery.com/msl-talk-podcast-newsletter-signup

The MSL Talk Podcast is available on all podcast platforms and the MSL Talk YouTube Channel.

MSL Talk is a podcast that features helpful information for current Medical Science Liaisons, Medical Affairs leaders, job seekers looking to break into the pharmaceutical industry in their first MSL role as well as anyone interested in hearing good industry conversation and medical affairs discussions.

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction to the episode and guest Sarah Ussery (0:13) Announcements and sponsor mention of MSL Mastery program (0:59) Sarah Ussery's background and career journey (1:25) Differences between big pharma and small biotech companies (3:15) Overview of big pharma companies (5:08) Characteristics of small biotech companies (7:33) Evolution of the MSL role in varying company sizes (9:26) MSL Responsibilities in big pharma vs. small biotech (16:21) Growth and advancement opportunities in big vs. small companies (20:20) Job market evaluation for large vs. small companies (21:01) Challenges faced in big pharma and small biotech (23:45) Company culture's impact and comparison (25:46) Resume building in different company environments (28:26) How to choose between large pharma and small biotech (30:05) Advice for MSLs for the upcoming year (30:48) Job market outlook for 2024 (32:12) Closing remarks and call to action

MSL Visibility - How to SUCCEED in 2024 Jan 02, 2024

Show notes

In episode 186, Tom Caravela welcomes Eleonora Goldberg to explore the evolving role of Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) within organizations. They delve into the key attributes leaders seek in MSLs and share strategies for standing out and enhancing team performance. Essential skills for MSL effectiveness and methods for evaluating performance are discussed, alongside preparing for industry changes and maintaining positivity in 2024. Eleonora offers predictions and expresses optimism for the future of MSLs. The episode concludes with closing remarks, appreciation, and a reminder to subscribe and stay engaged.

My guest this week is Eleonora Goldberg, Vice President, Medical Affairs at Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals and we discuss MSL Visibility and how to succeed in 2024.

Eleonora shares….

👉 What is the VALUE of MSLs
👉 What leaders look for in MSLs
👉 How can MSLs separate themselves from their peers
👉 How might 2024 be different for MSLs
👉 What advice is there for dealing with uncertainty

PLEASE sign up for the MSL Talk Podcast Newsletter here: https://www.mslmastery.com/msl-talk-podcast-newsletter-signup

The MSL Talk Podcast is available on all podcast platforms and the MSL Talk YouTube Channel.

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction to episode and guest Eleonora Goldberg (3:10) Discussing the value of MSLs in the organization (5:27) Key attributes leaders look for in MSLs (9:12) Strategies for MSLs to stand out and elevate team performance (14:03) Essential skills for MSL effectiveness (17:22) Evaluating MSL performance and metrics (19:56) Preparing for industry changes and staying positive in 2024 (26:06) Predictions and optimism for the future of MSLs (27:15) Closing remarks and appreciation (27:48) Subscription reminder and farewell

IMPOSTER: Why Do I STINK so much Dec 19, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela delves into the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome, sharing personal insights and experiences. He candidly discusses his own encounters with feelings of inadequacy and how he managed to navigate them. Tom offers practical strategies to combat imposter syndrome, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and positive reinforcement. He encourages listeners to recognize their achievements and maintain a supportive network. The episode wraps up with Tom's final thoughts, urging the audience to engage with the community and take proactive steps towards overcoming self-doubt.

Tom Caravela, Managing Partner at The Carolan Group and Co-Founder of MSL Mastery, discusses the 5 ways to overcome imposter syndrome

Tom shares….

👉 What is Imposter Syndrome
👉 How can you overcome imposter syndrome
👉 What is comparison-itis
👉 Why should you “touch some grass”
👉 How to develop a growth mindset

PLEASE sign up for the MSL Talk Podcast Newsletter here: https://www.mslmastery.com/msl-talk-podcast-newsletter-signup

The MSL Talk Podcast is available on all podcast platforms and the MSL Talk YouTube Channel.

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction to the episode and reminder to engage with the community (0:59) Understanding and overcoming imposter syndrome (3:20) Tom's personal experience with imposter syndrome (8:51) Lessons learned from dealing with imposter syndrome (10:13) Strategies to combat imposter syndrome (22:13) Final thoughts and encouragement (22:46) Closing remarks and call to action

The MOVE to Medical Excellence Dec 12, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Scott Thompson, CEO of Acceleration Point, to discuss the critical role of medical excellence in medical affairs. They explore the key responsibilities, tools, and processes involved, along with the challenges and importance of maintaining medical excellence. Scott shares insights on current trends and offers advice for those pursuing careers in this field. The conversation delves into the future of medical excellence and the importance of mentorship in medical affairs. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast.

Scott Thompson, CEO at Acceleration Point discusses the importance of Medical Excellence initiatives in Medical Affairs

Scott shares….

👉 What Medical Excellence is and what role it plays in Medical Affairs
👉 Why Medical Excellence is important
👉 The challenges Medical Affairs departments are facing right now
👉 The trends and best practices being adopted by med affairs for field medical
👉 His insights and predictions for 2024

PLEASE sign up for the MSL Talk Podcast Newsletter here: https://www.mslmastery.com/msl-talk-podcast-newsletter-signup

The MSL Talk Podcast is available on all podcast platforms and the MSL Talk YouTube Channel.

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction of Scott Thompson, CEO of Acceleration Point (0:13) Announcement of MSL Talk Live sessions and new MSL Talk Podcast newsletter (2:13) Discussion on medical excellence and its importance in medical affairs (5:04) Main responsibilities, tools, and processes within medical excellence (9:23) Importance and challenges of medical excellence in medical affairs (13:50) Trends, specialization, and advice for careers in medical excellence (20:07) Current and future trends in medical excellence and medical affairs (25:18) Closing remarks on the future of medical affairs and the importance of mentorship (26:32) Call to action for listeners: Subscribe, rate, and review

The DARK Side of MSL-ing-What No One Tells YOU Dec 05, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Kirsten Gurtowsky shares her experiences and insights as a Medical Science Liaison. She discusses her career journey, highlighting the balance and flexibility required in the MSL role, as well as the challenges faced. Kirsten delves into the importance of building strong relationships with Key Opinion Leaders and offers strategies for successful networking and engagement. She also provides guidance for aspiring MSLs, drawing on her professional experiences. The episode concludes with Kirsten sharing her excitement and goals for the upcoming year, followed by expressions of appreciation.

Kirsten Gurtowsky, Medical Science Liaison with Novartis, discusses the dark side of being an MSL and what you may not be aware of

Kirsten shares….

👉 What she LOVES about being an MSL
👉 What some of the main frustrations are for MSLs
👉 The challenges of travel and uncertainty
👉 The frustrations that come with paperwork and metrics
👉 Her insights and predictions for 2024

The podcast is available through the links below and anywhere podcasts can be found:

️ ️ 〰️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ ️ 〰️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ ️ 〰️ Youtube: https://lnkd.in/dhaWVJU

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction to the episode with guest Kirsten Gertowski (2:31) Kirsten's background and career journey as an MSL (5:12) The balance, flexibility, and challenges of the MSL role (10:14) Building relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) (13:22) Navigating travel and managing metrics in the MSL career (22:07) Guidance for aspiring MSLs and insights from current professionals (25:56) Strategies for successful networking and engagement with KOLs (28:23) Looking ahead: Excitement and goals for the upcoming year (29:17) Conclusion and appreciation

Job Leads: The Do's and Don't of Asking for Referrals Nov 28, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, George Lehman from Novo Nordisk joins to discuss the nuanced world of job referrals. George outlines his career journey and highlights the importance and challenges of securing referrals. The conversation delves into whom to ask for referrals, effective outreach strategies, and proper etiquette, even in the absence of prior connections. Tom and George share networking experiences, focusing on avoiding awkward requests and leveraging LinkedIn. They provide insights on building professional relationships, emphasizing timing and quality. The episode wraps up with final advice on networking and a call to action for listeners.

George Limen, Medical Liaison at Novo Nordisk discusses the do's and don'ts of asking people for referrals through LinkedIn and email.

The podcast is available through the links below and anywhere podcasts can be found:

️ ️ 〰️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ ️ 〰️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ ️ 〰️ Youtube: https://lnkd.in/dhaWVJU

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction to George Lehman and the topic of referrals (0:12) Announcements and reminders from Tom Caravela (0:49) Welcoming George Lehman and his background (1:24) George Lehman's role and journey at Novo Nordisk (2:22) The significance and challenges of job referrals (5:16) Who to ask for a referral and how to approach it (8:46) Dos and Don'ts of making outreach requests (13:26) Tom and George discuss networking experiences (15:27) Referral etiquette without prior relationships (19:12) Avoiding cringe-worthy referral requests (25:22) Leveraging questions and LinkedIn for career growth (29:09) Strategies for building professional relationships (30:01) Timing and quality in asking for referrals (33:37) Final advice on referrals and networking (34:45) Closing remarks and gratitude (35:35) Outro and call to action

The Inside OUT Interview Nov 21, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Kurt Grady joins Tom Caravela to discuss effective interview strategies and the importance of candidate fit in Medical Affairs. Kurt shares his unique interview philosophy, emphasizing the significance of vision sharing and authenticity throughout the process. He provides valuable insights for both hiring managers and aspiring MSLs, highlighting the role of coaching and team support in achieving success. The conversation delves into the intricacies of the interview process and offers practical advice for candidates aiming to make a genuine impact. The episode concludes with encouragement and a call for listeners to embrace authenticity in their careers.

Kurt Grady, Sr. Director, Head, US Medical Science Liaisons at Reneo Pharmaceuticals discusses his interview style and the inside out approach.

Kurt shares….

👉 His unique, candidate-centric approach to interviewing
👉 Why it is important to give candidates a voice in the process
👉 The importance of “sharing the vision” with candidates
👉 What his interview process looks like and who is involved
👉 What advice he has for companies that are interviewing
👉 What advice he has for candidates that are interviewing in this market

The podcast is available through the links below and anywhere podcasts can be found:

️ ️ 〰️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ ️ 〰️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ ️ 〰️ Youtube: https://lnkd.in/dhaWVJU

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction to Kurt Grady and his background (2:28) Sponsor: MSL Mastery (3:20) Kurt Grady's interview philosophy and approach (5:47) The role of candidate fit and vision sharing in Medical Affairs (16:32) In-depth look at the interview process (22:08) Key advice for hiring managers and aspiring MSLs (24:30) Emphasizing authenticity in the interview process (26:28) The importance of coaching and supporting team members (27:15) Closing remarks, sharing encouragement, and episode outro

How Job Seekers Can Stand out in a Crowded Market Nov 14, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Sarah Snyder joins to discuss navigating the current job market amidst pharmaceutical industry changes. She offers advice on coping with frustrations and maintaining hope as a job seeker, highlighting what hiring managers prioritize in candidates. Sarah covers essential first steps and common pitfalls in job searching, along with strategies to enhance personal branding. The conversation stresses the importance of attention to detail and a positive mindset. A success story introduces the Aspire MSL program, emphasizing personal and professional growth. Sarah wraps up by applying the scientific method to job searching and encouraging confidence.

Sarah Snyder, MSL Recruiter with The Carolan Group discusses best ways for job seekers to stand out in a crowded market.

Sarah shares….

👉 Her feelings on the current job market and what is causing it
👉 What hiring managers are looking for in candidates
👉 What is the first thing job seekers should do in this market
👉 What mistakes people are making right now
👉 What job seekers can do to get noticed

The podcast is available through the links below and anywhere podcasts can be found:

️ ️ 〰️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ ️ 〰️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ ️ 〰️ Youtube: https://lnkd.in/dhaWVJU

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction to the episode with Sarah Snyder (0:53) Discussing the current job market and pharmaceutical industry layoffs (5:46) How job seekers can cope with market frustrations and maintain hope (9:16) Insights on what hiring managers are looking for in candidates (13:37) Key first steps and common mistakes for job seekers (24:58) Strategies for enhancing your personal brand and job search (27:05) The importance of attention to detail and a positive mindset (29:55) Success story and introduction to the Aspire MSL program (33:45) Emphasizing personal and professional development (35:55) The scientific method in job search and maintaining confidence (38:06) Final motivational words and closing thoughts

Using Your VOICE as a Weapon Nov 07, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela is joined by Matt Berthot to explore the significance of voice training in professional settings. Matt shares insights into his career journey and the importance of vocal presence in medical affairs. The discussion covers practical tips for enhancing vocal skills and overcoming fear, emphasizing the role of voice in building emotional connections and expressing emotions effectively in business. Matt provides strategies for preparing emotionally and mentally for meetings, highlighting the interplay between voice mechanics and emotional impact. The episode wraps up with advice on cultivating emotional resonance and where to connect with Matt online.

Matt Berthot, Vocal Coach and CEO at Voice by Matt LLC, discusses how to use your voice as a weapon.

Matt shares….

👉 What a voice coach does and how it differs from what you might think
👉 The importance of transferring energy
👉 What it means to be authentic and share your REAL voice
👉 How to show your soul

The podcast is available through the links below and anywhere podcasts can be found:

️ ️ 〰️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ ️ 〰️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ ️ 〰️ Youtube: https://lnkd.in/dhaWVJU

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction and guest introduction (2:11) Background on Tom's and Matt's acquaintance and Matt's career (5:05) Transition to voice training and its professional importance (11:40) Using and improving your professional vocal presence (15:29) Tips for vocal improvement and overcoming fear (20:00) Building emotional connections in professional communication (24:41) Techniques for emotional expression in business (29:23) Preparing emotionally and mentally for meetings (31:24) The interplay of voice mechanics and emotional impact (34:22) Cultivating emotional resonance in professional settings (35:42) Where to find Matt Berthot online (36:28) Closing remarks and gratitude

"My Company has been sold, now what?!?” Oct 31, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, Tom Caravela welcomes Steve St. Onge to discuss the intricacies of corporate acquisitions within the pharmaceutical industry. Steve shares his journey through corporate development and provides insight into the transition and management of acquisitions, both before and after announcements. The conversation delves into the emotional and strategic aspects of navigating acquisitions, identifying warning signs, and the impact of market volatility. Steve offers practical advice for decision-making during economic downturns and strategies for embracing change and new opportunities in the pharma sector. The episode concludes with a discussion on future innovation and optimism in biotech, along with closing remarks and gratitude to listeners.

Steve St. Onge, Sr Director Business Development and Corporate Communications at Paratek discusses what to expect after your company has been acquired.

Steve shares….

👉 What to expect when acquisition news hits
👉 How to handle emotions and not panic
👉 What steps you should take after acquisition news
👉 What are the warning signs to be aware of
👉 Why is the pharma / biotech sector so volatile these days

The podcast is available through the links below and anywhere podcasts can be found:

️ ️ 〰️ Spotify: https://lnkd.in/dRrSEyn

️ ️ 〰️ Apple: https://lnkd.in/egSthAz

️ ️ 〰️ Youtube: https://lnkd.in/dhaWVJU

#msl #medicalaffairs #medicalscienceliaison #MSLTalk #pharmaceutical

(0:00) Introduction to guest Steve Saint An (0:13) Announcements and Sponsor: Paratek Pharmaceuticals (2:46) Overview of Steve Saint An's background and corporate development (5:25) Transition and initial reactions to corporate acquisitions (8:05) Behind-the-scenes pre-announcement activities (12:09) Managing post-announcement events and emotions (17:52) Practical advice for navigating acquisitions and warning signs (24:54) Market volatility and factors affecting the pharmaceutical industry (26:51) Decision-making during economic downturns (29:56) Strategies for dealing with change post-acquisition (31:08) Embracing new opportunities in the pharma industry (33:04) Future of innovation and optimism in biotech (34:49) Closing remarks and thanks to listeners

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