The Readout Loud

332: Pfizer's new R&D head, a VC deep-dive, and a new FDA commissioner? Nov 21, 2024

Atlas Venture Partner Bruce Booth joins the podcast to discuss his annual year in review report, the influence of China, and what the new Trump administration might mean for innovation. Adam and Allison also recap the latest news in the life sciences, including a new science chief at Pfizer, a new job for Ned Sharpless, and the ongoing presidential appointments.

331: AbbVie’s stumble, Amgen’s tumble and more election fallout Nov 14, 2024

Why are AbbVie executives feeling the M&A blues? What does it take to slice $12 billion from Amgen’s market value? And why are STAT’s D.C. correspondents working so hard?

We talk about all that and more on this week’s episode of the “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. It’s a “Chatty Cathy” episode! Elaine, Allison and Adam lead off with a discussion about AbbVie’s M&A miscue following the failure of a closely followed schizophrenia drug. You’d hate us if obesity drugs weren’t mentioned, so we oblige with a tick-tock on what went down between Amgen and a Wall Street analyst who noted a possible safety issue with the obesity drug candidate MariTide.

330: How a Trump presidency could affect the FDA, the biotech industry, and its stocks Nov 07, 2024

To dig into how the election results could affect all things biopharma, we brought on three guests for this episode: Lizzy Lawrence, STAT’s FDA reporter, Baird analyst Brian Skorney, and longtime biotech executive Daphne Zohar.

329: Lilly's earnings surprise, investors mull the election, & a spooky ghost story Oct 31, 2024

Adam, Allison, and Elaine get into the Halloween spirit this week, discussing their favorite candies — and Eli Lilly and Pfizer's surprise earnings reports. Then, they discuss what a Trump or Harris presidency could mean for health care and the biopharma industry, and what investors and biopharma executives think about either outcome.

328: Pfizer's activist troubles, gene therapy questions, RFK Jr.'s MAHA ambitions Oct 24, 2024

Will an activist investor campaign against Pfizer lead to big changes at the struggling Pharma giant? Why are some experts questioning the regulatory standards used to approve gene therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy? What’s the difference between Novo Holdings and Novo Nordisk, and will it impact a $16 billion acquisition of Catalent? And what lies ahead for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the Make America Healthy Again movement?

327: Biotech's next gold rush, GLP-1 shortages, and STAT Summit highlights Oct 17, 2024

Elaine, Allison, and Adam chat about investors' interest in using CAR-T to treat autoimmune conditions, the latest developments with the supply of Eli Lilly’s blockbuster weight loss drug, and the invisible medical groups behind the dozens of telehealth platforms providing GLP-1 drugs. They also look back at STAT's two-day summit that brought together biopharma executives, scientists, policymakers and patient advocates for conversations about the future of health care.

326: Crypto for CRISPR, a new RNAi startup, & a Nobel for AI Oct 10, 2024

First, biotech veteran John Maraganore calls in to discuss his new startup, City Therapeutics, this week's Nobel Prize awards, and the nerdy accolade he just received. Then STAT's Megan Molteni tells us about "CRISPR baby" scientist He Jiankui and his new cryptocurrency financier.

325: Biden's health care AI czar, a new obesity company, and its dealmaking CEO Oct 03, 2024

Our colleague Mohana Ravindranath joins us to talk about Micky Tripathi, charged with coordinating how AI is used across different government agencies and more broadly across the health care industry. We also chat about some important biotech study readouts due before the end of the year, a new, well-funded obesity company, and the successful serial CEO running it. Finally, Adam and Allison lament the fact that Elaine hasn't yet watched the first episode of this season's "Great British Baking Show."

From Tradeoffs: Race to the Bottom Sep 28, 2024

We’re excited to share the first episode in a new podcast series on generic drugs from Tradeoffs. It’s called ‘Race to the Bottom,’ and each week the show examines the problems undermining the generic drugs we all rely on — and how we could fix them. Take a listen, and we’ll see you next week.

324: Genentech's cancer pivot, Pfizer's sickle cell withdrawal, and a new schizophrenia drug Sep 26, 2024

Our colleague Jonathan Wosen joins us to discuss the recent setbacks and wins in oncology R&D, including Genentech's decision to shut down its cancer immunology group, and the global ambitions of Akeso, the Chinese biotech behind Summit Therapeutics’ recent positive results. We also chat about the latest news in the life sciences, including Pfizer’s sudden announcement to pull its sickle cell drug and the imminent approval of Bristol Myers Squibb’s schizophrenia treatment.

323: Cannabinoids for weight loss, a cancelled ad comm, and the Fed lowers interest rates Sep 19, 2024

Mizuho analyst Jared Holz joins us to discuss what the Federal Reserve's long-awaited decision to lower interest rates means for biotech stocks and startups. Elaine, Adam, and Allison also discuss the latest news in life sciences, including the use of cannabinoid receptor drugs in weight loss and the Lasker Awards, a.k.a. "America's Nobel."

322: A new threat to Merck's blockbuster cancer treatment, Moderna's cutbacks, and obesity drugs for kids Sep 12, 2024

STAT reporter Matt Herper joins us to break down all the angles of this week's tumultuous week in cancer immunotherapy, including his up-close look at Summit co-CEO Bob Duggan. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including Moderna pruning its pipeline and its spending, plus results from a study that tested a GLP-1 drug in children.

321: Summit's upcoming cancer results, Recursion's mixed data, and the next big obesity target Sep 05, 2024

We discuss the next big trend in obesity drug development — treatments that target the amylin hormone. Companies argue that these types of drugs could lead to less nausea and muscle loss, and the first big readout is coming later this year. We also chat about an upcoming presentation from Summit Therapeutics on its cancer drug that beat Merck’s Keytruda, mixed data from Recursion’s lead AI-derived drug candidate, and more news in the life sciences.

320: Jim Wilson's next venture, a surprise startup shutdown, & Lilly's Zepbound strategy Aug 29, 2024

STAT biotech reporter Jonathan Wosen joins us to discuss gene therapy pioneer Jim Wilson's exit from his decades-long tenure at the University of Pennsylvania. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the surprising collapse of a gene editing company, Eli Lilly's pitch to consumers, and more.

From "Say More": What Happens When AI Decides Your Medical Coverage Aug 23, 2024

This week, STAT's Casey Ross and Bob Herman joined the Boston Globe's "Say More" podcast to talk about their reporting on AI and Healthcare. We're sharing that episode here with you now. Enjoy!

319: BioMarin's executive shakeup, a GLP-1 lowers diabetes risk, and a deep look at Recursion's AI bona fides Aug 22, 2024

It's a guest-free episode this week, giving Allison, Adam and Elaine ample time to chat about the management shakeup at BioMarin, including the announcement that James Sabry, the former Roche dealmaker, was joining the company as its new chief business officer. We can't seem to go a week without talking about GLP-1 medicines, so in true form, Elaine walks us through new study findings that showed Lilly's Zepbound greatly reduced the risk of diabetes. We also discuss a separate study that potentially links GLP-1 drugs to a higher rate of suicidal thoughts.

Lastly, Adam and Elaine interrogate Allison about her deeply reported corporate profile of AI drug developer Recursion. Is all the hype real?

318: Drug pricing drops & psychedelics under fire Aug 15, 2024

STAT’s chief Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs Zhang joins us to discuss the discounts and how this first round of negotiations between pharmaceutical companies and Medicare officials played out. After that, we chat with our colleague Meghana Keshavan about the latest news in the psychedelics world, including the retraction of three research papers.

317: VC struggles, drug pricing negotiations, & Novo's abrupt Wegovy decision Aug 08, 2024

STAT's Washington Correspondent John Wilkerson joins us to discuss the first round of drug pricing negotiations under the Inflation Reduction Act, which will wrap up by September 1. We also cover the latest news in the life sciences including the merger of AI drug development companies Recursion Pharmaceuticals and Exscientia, Novo Nordisk's decision to pause its regulatory submission for Wegovy's use in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, and the state of biotech VC.

316: The long journey to make malaria vaccines, and Sarepta's ties with patient advocates Aug 01, 2024

Andrew Joseph, STAT's Europe correspondent, joins us to talk about his special report on the 40-year quest to develop the world's first malaria vaccines. We also cover the latest news in the biotech industry, including Sarepta Therapeutics' move to censor a patient video, data from a new Duchenne gene therapy, and a campaign by Mount Sinai to stifle debate about its controversial brain research following revelations made by a STAT investigation.

315: UnitedHealth's doctor empire, an FDA departure, and Viking's obesity moves Jul 25, 2024

What makes UnitedHealth similar to Standard Oil? Is Viking Therapeutics an attractive acquisition target? And is Adam good at math?

We discuss all that and more in this week’s episode of “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. Tara Bannow, our hospitals and insurance reporter, joins us to talk about a new investigation that shows how UnitedHealth wields its unrivaled physician empire to boost its profits and expand its influence.

We also cover the latest news in the life sciences, including Viking's sped-up plans in obesity, the departure of a long time official at the Food and Drug Administration, and Kamala Harris' views on health policies.

314: JD Vance's biotech ties, Cassava resignations, and insulin shortages Jul 18, 2024

Our Washington correspondent Sarah Owermohle joins us to talk about how JD Vance, Donald Trump's newly announced running mate, could influence health policy if Trump wins the election. We also discuss the latest news in the biopharma industry, including the latest developments in the ongoing controversy surrounding Cassava’s Alzheimer’s drug, shortages of insulin as Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly turn their focus toward GLP-1 drugs, and a shakeup in leadership at Gilead.

313: Biotech layoffs, founder-focused VC, & a big pharma exit Jul 11, 2024

STAT's West Coast biotech reporter Jonathan Wosen joins "The Readout LOUD" to discuss what’s driving workforce cuts. Plus, entrepreneurs Alexis Borisy and Zach Weinberg call in to discuss their biotech incubator Curie.Bio and how they hope to “free the founders.” We also discuss a big change in Pfizer’s leadership and the debate over a new side effect tied to the diabetes drug Ozempic.

312: Medicare coverage for GLP-1 drugs, AI, and health care at the presidential debate Jun 27, 2024

STAT health tech reporter Brittany Trang guest co-hosts "The Readout LOUD" this week, where we discuss AI for drug development, the latest in the H5N1 bird flu outbreak, a surprise entrant to the GLP-1 field, and more news in the life sciences. And STAT chief Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs Zhang joins the podcast to talk about a new proposal for obesity drug coverage in Washington and what to expect from the first presidential debate.

311: Fauci's memoir, Alnylam's tenuous trial, and a mid-year review Jun 20, 2024

STAT reporter Jason Mast joins us to discuss Anthony Fauci's memoir "On Call," which was published this week. Hosts Allison DeAngelis and Adam Feuerstein also dissect Alnylam's forthcoming clinical trial data and take stock of how the biotech markets are succeeding and potentially falling flat midway through the year.

For more on Fauci's memoir "On Call," go here; for Adam's primer on Alnylam's ATTR-CM trial, go here; read about BridgeBio's plans here; and for more on biotech startup financing, go here.

310: Duchenne gene therapy setback, Alzheimer's drug endorsement & why a STAT reporter buys weed (for journalism) Jun 13, 2024

STAT's Nicholas Florko joins to explain what it means to be a reporter writing about the commercial determinants of health. Hint: Florko's most recent stories focus on weed, vapes, and raw milk. And instead of being chained to a desk, he often drives around to convenience stores and buy bad stuff — all in the name of good journalism. But first, co-hosts Adam Feuerstein and Allison DeAngelis chat about Pfizer's Duchenne gene therapy setback, the likely approval of a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease, and Bob Langer's most recent startup.

309: Psychedelics at the FDA, ASCO recap, & MorphoSys update Jun 06, 2024

STAT colleague Meghana Keshavan joins us to dissect Lykos Therapeutics' meeting with an FDA advisory committee. We also discuss the latest news in the health and life sciences, including stories from major biotech conferences.

To learn more about Lykos' advisory committee meeting, go here; for more on the tumult at BIO, go here; for a recap of ASCO, go here; to read the latest on Novartis' acquisition of MorphoSys, go here. And you can sign up for Adam’s new newsletter, Biotech Scorecard, here.

308: An ASCO preview & another Duchenne trial failure May 30, 2024

We preview some of the research that will be presented at The American Society of Clinical Oncology conference in Chicago. We also discuss the latest news in the health and life sciences, including a milestone in lung disease R&D and a Duchenne muscular dystrophy confirmatory trial failure.

To read more about Merus' combination therapy, go here; For more on Johnson & Johnson's mixed data, click here; For more on Nippon Shinyaku's Duchenne drug trial failure, go here; To read more on Insmed's bronchiectasis treatment, click here; To sign up for STAT's ASCO newsletter, click here.

307: More tumult at BIO & coercive care for sickle cell patients May 23, 2024

This week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT's Chief Washington Correspondent Rachel Cohrs Zhang joins us to discuss the layoffs at trade group BIO and how things may be changing at the trade group. We also invite STAT reporter Eric Boodman on to talk about his new investigative series of stories exploring how Black women with sickle cell disease were coerced into getting sterilized.

306: Live! From the STAT Breakthrough Summit West May 16, 2024

On this week’s "Readout LOUD," we’re live in San Francisco at STAT’s Breakthrough Summit West. AI is a big theme this year, everywhere, so on that note, we chat with our AI correspondent — and recent Pulitzer finalist — Casey Ross, who sat down on stage to discuss AI-centered drug discovery with both NVIDIA and Google-backed Isomorphic Labs.

We also discuss this week’s biotech news, including yet more obesity drug data, this time from Roche, and the closing of Novartis’ acquisition of MorphoSys.

305: Everything you need to know about H5N1 bird flu May 09, 2024

This week on "The Readout LOUD," STAT senior infectious diseases reporter Helen Branswell walks us through ongoing H5N1 outbreak in the U.S. and issues with monitoring the spread. And in a bit of shameless self-promotion, we’ll talk to our colleagues Bob Herman and Casey Ross about being named Pulitzer finalists in investigative reporting for their reporting on United Healthcare’s use of algorithms in coverage decisions. We'll hear what’s happened since their explosive work was published last year.

304: Controversial brain tissue research, obesity drug sales and Novartis’ M&A drama May 02, 2024

The removal of small amounts of brain tissue from desperately ill patients, done as part of a Mount Sinai research project, triggered alarm bells at the Food and Drug Administration and has raised broader questions about the scientific and ethical justification for live-brain research. Journalist and STAT contributor Katherine Eban joins “The Readout LOUD” podcast to discuss the results of a two-year investigation. We also discuss Novartis’ effort to acquire MorphoSys, and the latest news on Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk’s blockbuster obesity drugs with Elaine Chen, the newest member of STAT’s biotech reporting team.

303: A new obesity startup, an acquisition gone wrong, & the future of Teledoc Apr 18, 2024

We bring on biotech veteran Clive Meanwell to discuss his new obesity startup, Metsera, and running head-to-head trials against Wegovy and Zepbound. We also dissect how Teledoc CEO Jason Gorevic parted ways with the company after spending 15 years building the telemedicine field.

Here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout. And here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter on the business (and secretive inner workings) of the U.S. health care industry, Health Care Inc.

302: Vertex's big deal, biotech's red numbers, & an industry history lesson Apr 11, 2024

How would you spend $13 billion in cash? Is biotech stale? And remember Dendreon?

We cover all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. We discuss a multibillion-dollar deal from Vertex Pharmaceuticals with sweeping implications and a lengthy backstory. We also explain why gas prices are weighing on biotech, and make a surprise announcement.

301: Biotech mega-rounds, a cancer vaccine setback & CEOs keep their promise Apr 04, 2024

Oruka Therapeutics CEO Lawrence Klein joins us to discuss how his company raised its first round of financing before competing with major players in the inflammation space. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the end of the Amylyx ALS saga, another use case for GLP-1s, and a hurdle in Verve’s gene editing plans.

Here’s where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout. And here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter on the business (and secretive inner workings) of the U.S. health care industry, Health Care Inc.

300: What the mifepristone case means, GLP-1 skepticism, & Chinese biotech Mar 28, 2024

Our colleague Sarah Owermohle joins us to explain the Supreme Court case that could have dramatic effects on access to medication abortion — and the development of new medicines. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a contrarian take on a new obesity treatment, a congressional effort to ban Chinese biotech companies, and how we managed to make 300 episodes of this podcast.

Here’s where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout. And here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter on the business (and secretive inner workings) of the U.S. health care industry, Health Care Inc.

299: Live! From the STAT Breakthrough Summit East Mar 21, 2024

Recorded live from from the STAT Breakthrough Summit East in New York City, we discuss some event highlights, including words from CRISPR pioneer Feng Zhang and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals head scientist George Yancopoulos. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a twist in the GLP-1 story, the cost of gene therapy, and, of course, pie.

298: A dilemma in ALS, the first MASH drug, & why gene therapy is hard Mar 14, 2024

Bioethicist Holly Fernandez Lynch joins us to discuss the case of Amylyx Pharmaceuticals’ treatment for ALS and what its failure means for drug development. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a tepid reception for gene therapies, the future of CAR-T cancer treatment, and the first approved medicine for a prevalent liver disease.

297: VC turmoil, GLP-1 competition, & the war on recovery Mar 07, 2024

For the entirety of the opioid overdose epidemic, the U.S. has had readily available tools that are proven to save lives. STAT’s Lev Facher joins us to explain his reporting on why virtually every sector of American society is standing in the way of their use. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the haves and have-nots of venture capital, and the race to develop effective oral treatments for obesity.

296: Legal insider trading, booming biotech stocks, & the next GLP-1 Feb 29, 2024

We dive into the the latest craze in the world of biotech finance, involving hedge funds and some insider information, and explain why not everyone thinks it's such a good idea. We also discuss a banner month for biotech stocks and the latest twist in obesity research.

Here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout. And here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter on the business (and secretive inner workings) of the U.S. health care industry, Health Care Inc.

295: Humira’s legacy, CEO symbolism, and genomic surgery Feb 22, 2024

First, former Alnylam Pharmaceuticals CEO John Maraganore and STAT’s Matthew Herper join us to discuss the legacy of AbbVie chief executive Richard Gonzalez, who announced his retirement this week. Then, we dive into the fascinating world of fetal genome surgery, as STAT’s Megan Molteni joins us to explain the work of a scientist named Tippi MacKenzie.

Here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout. And here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter on the business (and secretive inner workings) of the U.S. health care industry, Health Care Inc.

294: Pharma goes to Washington, Alnylam's future, & Gilead's dealmaking Feb 15, 2024

The pharmaceutical industry, in court and in Congress, is working to water down legislation that will let Medicare negotiate certain drug prices. STAT Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs joins us to explain the industry’s struggle to make headway — and how it factors into the 2024 election. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a twist in the future of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, competition to Vertex Pharmaceuticals’ pain drug, and Gilead Sciences' latest acquisition.

Here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout. And here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter on the business (and secretive inner workings) of the U.S. health care industry, Health Care Inc.

293: AI in medicine, detangling hype, and Icelandic DNA Feb 08, 2024

It's our all-AI episode. First, STAT’s Casey Ross joins us to explain his reporting on how researchers and pharmaceutical firms are using the technology to find new drug targets, design therapies, and improve clinical trials. Then, we talk to Joel Dudley, a partner at the venture firm Innovation Endeavors, about how to discern promising ideas from wastes of time when it comes to AI in biotech.

Here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout. And here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter on the business (and secretive inner workings) of the U.S. health care industry, Health Care Inc.

292: Vertex's polarizing data, Aduhelm's adieu, & an FDA icon Feb 01, 2024

We explain the debate over Vertex Pharmaceuticals' novel pain drug, whose success in clinical trials comes with a sizable caveat. We also talk about the latest news in the life sciences, including an epitaph for Aduhelm and the retirement of an FDA icon.

Here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout. And here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter on the business (and secretive inner workings) of the U.S. health care industry, Health Care Inc.

291: The plight of the VC, Gilead's latest setback, & more M&A Jan 25, 2024

We discuss how biotech's downturn has made life difficult not just for startups but also the VCs they rely on for much-needed funding. We also take a look at Gilead Sciences' struggle to turn itself into an oncology company and the latest biotech to get bought out by a major pharma firm.

Subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout.

290: Biotech layoffs, slumping stocks, and a 2024 preview Jan 18, 2024

Our colleague Jason Mast joins us to discuss an emerging trend in biotech: Cash-rich startups are laying off employees and tweaking their strategies amid a tough market for venture capital. We also look ahead to the biggest biotech stories coming in 2024, including some major data readouts and a few pivotal FDA decisions.

Here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout.

289: Live! From #JPM24 Jan 11, 2024

Recording from the STAT co-working space outside the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, we discuss how a spate of deals and some intermittent sunshine seem to have brightened the outlook for biotech at the outset of 2024. We also talk about the latest twist in the Sarepta Therapeutics saga, a ubiquitous dealmaker, and life on the party circuit.

For more on what we cover, here's the news on Sarepta; here's more on Nvidia; here's the story on Centerview; here’s where you can find episodes of Color Code; here’s where you can subscribe to the First Opinion Podcast; and here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout.

287: 2023 in review, CEO report cards, and a look at the year ahead Dec 21, 2023

It's our last episode of 2023, so we look back on the biggest stories of the year, discuss the best and worst CEOs in the industry, and make some reasonably informed guesses on what 2024 has in store for the drug industry.

286: FTC v. biotech, Pfizer's kitchen sink, & Vertex's future Dec 14, 2023

First, we delve into the fallout over the FTC's move to block what looked like a humdrum biotech deal between Sanofi and Maze Therapeutics, a surprising twist that leaves unanswered question. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including Pfizer’s downbeat future, Vertex Pharmaceuticals’ next big thing, and a newly minted biotech VC with a very famous name.

Here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout.

285: CRISPR history, biotech struggles, & a big week for deals Dec 07, 2023

With the first CRISPR-based medicine expected to win FDA approval any minute now, STAT’s Megan Molteni joins us to discuss how we got here and what it means for the future. Then, Bruce Booth from Atlas Venture joins us to discuss what was yet another downbeat year for biotech and whether there’s reason for optimism heading into 2024.

To keep up with biotech news throughout the week, here's where you can subscribe to our newsletter, The Readout.

284: AbbVie’s big deal, CAR-T’s risks, & getting a biotech job Nov 30, 2023

We discuss why AbbVie is spending $10 billion on a cancer-focused company that spent four decades on the path to its first FDA approval, a deal with implications for biotech in 2023 and for a burgeoning area in oncology. We’ll also talk about the latest news in the life sciences, including safety concerns for CAR-T cancer treatment, the slumping industry job market, and some curious explanations for clinical failures.

283: A CRISPR milestone, algorithms amok, & biotech mixology Nov 16, 2023

Our colleague Casey Ross joins us to tell the bombshell story of how the nation's largest health insurer used a computer algorithm to deny patient care and boost its profitability. Then, biotech veteran Michael Gilman calls in to offer a behind-the-scenes peek at what it’s like to be a startup CEO in this economic downturn — and which cocktail recipes help make it bearable. We also discuss a pioneering approval for a genome-editing medicine.

From Tradeoffs: Can the U.S. put an end to surprise ambulance bills? Nov 13, 2023

From our reporting partners at Tradeoffs: Congress banned most surprise medical bills back in 2020, with one major exception: ambulance rides. Most people agree that patients should be shielded from these unexpected charges. But who should pick up the tab instead?

This week, as state and federal policymakers grapple with that question, we delve into why finding a fair solution is harder than you’d think.

You can also check out our STAT story for more information.

Note: This episode has been re-uploaded after technical difficulties.

282: Lilly’s obesity drug, the power of radiation, & a biotech implosion Nov 09, 2023

As so-called radiopharmaceuticals make headlines in oncology, we explore their fascinating scientific backstory and the biotech gold rush to make them. We also discuss the approval of Eli Lilly’s curiously named treatment for obesity, the latest implosion for a promising biotech company, and some news in the world of shareholder activism.

To keep up between podcast episodes, here’s where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout.

281: Decoding biotech hype, the Sarepta saga, & au revoir to a CEO Nov 02, 2023

Biotech consultant Frank David joins us to explain the wild world of subgroup analyses and how to discern science from spin. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the future of Sarepta and the retirement of a biotech stalwart.

For more on what we cover, here's where you can read Frank's work; here's more on Sarepta; here’s where you can find episodes of Color Code; here’s where you can subscribe to the First Opinion Podcast; and here's where you can subscribe to our biotech newsletter, The Readout.

280: ESMO highlights, Roivant's big deal, & biotech VC on the rise Oct 26, 2023

Our colleague Andrew Joseph joins us to explain the decades-old cancer-treating technology that had its star turn at this week's big oncology conference in Europe. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the future of Alzheimer’s disease treatment, a multibillion-dollar deal, and the return of the biotech mega-round.

For more on what we cover, here's STAT's coverage of the European Society for Medical Oncology meeting; here's more on Roivant Sciences; here's the latest on biotech venture capital; here's more on the latest Alzheimer's data; here’s where you can find episodes of Color Code; and here’s where you can subscribe to the First Opinion Podcast.

279: Live from the 2023 STAT Summit Oct 19, 2023

Live from Boston at the 2023 STAT Summit, we discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a milestone in genome editing, a twist in the search for ALS treatments, and the polarizing process of saying words in biotech.

278: Merger Mondays, Ozempic panic, & CRISPR'd pigs Oct 12, 2023

We discuss Bristol Myers Squibb’s multibillion-dollar acquisition of Mirati Therapeutics and what it means for a biotech sector still in a slump. We also explain the latest news in the life sciences, including Wall Street’s freakout over GLP-1, CRISPR’ing animals, and the latest in the NASH saga.

277: Is the Nobel committee evolving? Plus, preventing public health's wiliest virus Oct 05, 2023

It’s Nobel week on the podcast, and reporter Megan Molteni details the unique story of this year’s winners for medicine, Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman. Then, our colleague Jason Mast joins us to explain the scientific and ethical quandaries facing the teams attempting to develop HIV vaccines.

276: Who discovered GLP-1? Plus: BrainStorm at the FDA and biotech's slump Sep 28, 2023

Our colleague Elaine Chen joins us to explain the story of Svetlana Mojsov, a chemist who played a vital role in the discovery of GLP-1 who has spent decades fighting for proper recognition. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the FDA hearing on a BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics' polarizing ALS treatment, the end of the road for a once-vaunted drug developer, and the sorry state of biotech stocks.

275: A thorny ALS debate at the FDA, and the promise of artificial wombs Sep 21, 2023

Our colleague Lizzy Lawrence joins us to explain the promise of artificial wombs and the debate over how to ethically develop them. We also discuss a momentous upcoming meeting in which FDA will consider the thorny case of a potential medicine for ALS whose supporting evidence has polarized patients and physicians.

274: Covid’s latest surge, Alnylam at the FDA, & the end of an era Sep 14, 2023

Our colleague Helen Branswell joins us to discuss the state of the Covid-19 pandemic heading into the fall and the rollout of boosters shots aimed at the latest viral variants. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including an IPO implosion, a debate at the FDA, and the ups and downs of a career in biotech.

273: Back to school for biotech, Biogen's potential pivot, & Illumina's next chapter Sep 07, 2023

Josh Schimmer and Eric Schmidt, two longtime analysts teaming up at Cantor Fitzgerald, join us for a back-to-school conversation as biotech enters the busy back third of 2023. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including some scientific evolution at Biogen, new leadership at Illumina, and the future of CRISPR medicine.

272: Vivek's star turn, leaky drug data, & biotech as family business Aug 24, 2023

We discuss how Vivek Ramaswamy, fresh off his headline-grabbing debut at the first Republican presidential debate, went from a drug industry entrepreneur to a GOP rising star — and how his former biotech colleagues are reacting to it. We also explain the latest news in the life sciences, including a curious data leak and the family business of a famed biotech inventor.

271: Racing for gene therapy, a pioneering approval, & startups in the lurch Aug 18, 2023

Our colleague Jason Mast joins us to explain how the approval of a landmark gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy set in motion a frantic race to get children treated before their 6th birthdays. Then, HSBC Managing Director Jonathan Norris calls in to discuss why so many biotech startups are facing financial bridges to nowhere.

270: Your guide to Wegovy’s blockbuster heart study Aug 10, 2023

In the wake of a massively important clinical trial of Novo Nordisk’s obesity drug Wegovy, our colleague Elaine Chen joins us to explain what we know and don’t know about data that could change the practice of medicine. Then, Mizuho Securities biotech strategist Jared Holz calls in to discuss whether explosive popularity of obesity treatments could help create the first trillion-dollar drug company.

269: Biotech layoffs, eye drug drama, & gene therapy milestones Aug 03, 2023

First, we discuss how some recent layoffs and a reverse merger mean for biotech in 2023. We’ll also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a dramatic saga in ocular medicine, the volatile business of Covid-19, and some major milestones in gene therapy.

268: Biogen's sticky situation, Wegovy's risks, & biotech insider trading Jul 27, 2023

First, we discuss why Wall Street was less than convinced by Biogen's attempt to assuage concerns about its credibility. Then we explain an insider trading scandal that bridges biotech and elite-level soccer, the latest concerns over Wegovy, and the rest of the week's news in the life sciences. We also break some bittersweet news, with the help of some headline names from around biotech.

267: BridgeBio's big week, Lilly's Alzheimer's data, & succession at Stanford Jul 20, 2023

Neil Kumar, CEO of BridgeBio, joins us to talk about how his small company came to develop what could be a big drug — and why classical Greek literature remains relevant. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the abrupt resignation of the celebrity scientist who led Stanford University and the implications of tornado damage at a Pfizer plant.

266: Wegovy in the brain, pivotal Alzheimer's data, & pulling Threads Jul 13, 2023

Our colleague Megan Molteni joins us to explain the evolving science suggesting products like Wegovy are less weight loss drugs than treatments for human desire. We also explain why this summer is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the treatment of Alzheimer’s and discuss our befuddlement with the latest social media platform.

265: Novavax's CEO promises a turnaround & how Lilly roiled the obesity market Jun 29, 2023

Our colleague Elaine Chen joins us to explain how the era of Wegovy could be short-lived in light of powerful new weight-loss medicines from Eli Lilly. Then, John Jacobs, the new CEO of Novavax, stops by to explain his plan to right the ship at a company that has struggled to make the most of its potent Covid-19 vaccine.

264: Messy PBM conflicts, debatable vaccines, & the future of flu season Jun 22, 2023

Our colleague Bob Herman joins us to explain his year-long investigation into some brazen conflicts of interest in the world of prescription drug pricing. Then, STAT's Helen Branswell calls in to walk us through a news-packed week for vaccines, including weighty decisions for Covid-19 and RSV.

263: Biogen's messy board, Laronde's data problem, & the downside of a boom Jun 15, 2023

Our colleague Allison DeAngelis joins us to share her reporting on how the handsomely funded Laronde Therapeutics, billed as “Moderna 2.0,” ran into behind-the-scenes problems with its scientific data. We also discuss how Biogen's boardroom scandal has roiled a company that was supposed to be entering a new era.

262: Merck v. USA, the best of ASCO, and Leqembi at the FDA Jun 08, 2023

STAT Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs joins us to explain Merck's lawsuit against the federal government and why the company believes drug pricing negotiation is “tantamount to extortion." We also discuss the health effects of Canadian wildfires, the highlights of the year’s biggest cancer research conference, and what could be a watershed moment in the treatment of Alzheimer’s.

261: Fake medical devices, real cancer drugs, & curious Ozempic effects Jun 01, 2023

Our colleague Lizzy Lawrence joins us to explain the shocking story of a medical device company that sold fake implants and the warped system that made the scam lucrative. We’ll also preview the year’s biggest cancer research meeting and discuss a surprising twist with novel weight loss medicines.

260: ChatGPT in medicine, a boom in weight loss pills, & Sarepta at the FDA May 25, 2023

As hospitals and health care companies are racing to implement large language models like ChatGPT into their businesses, STAT reporter Casey Ross joins us to explain what experts want the world to know before embracing generative AI. We also discuss the latest twist for Sarepta Therapeutics and the quest to develop more potent weight loss medicines.

259: The FTC v. Amgen, Sarepta's future, & Galapagos' turnaround May 18, 2023

Jared Holz, biotech strategist at Mizuho Securities, joins us to explain why federal regulators are suing to block Amgen's $28 billion merger with Horizon Therapeutics and what it means for the drug industry. We also discuss the latest on Sarepta Therapeutics and its gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a turnaround story in the making at the Belgian drug maker Galapagos, and the effort to secure approval for a maternal RSV vaccine.

258: Pharma vs. PBMs, Sarepta at the FDA, & a bold idea gone awry May 11, 2023

We discuss a Senate hearing that put major pharma CEOs in the same room with the middlemen they love to blame for rising drug prices, with mixed results. We also explain what is a massive week for Sarepta Therapeutics, the FDA, and the future of gene therapies for rare diseases, plus the latest news in the life sciences.

257: Lilly's Alzheimer's success, a milestone FDA approval, & Moderna's shrinking business May 04, 2023

Eli Lilly’s investigational medicine for Alzheimer’s met its goals in an all-important clinical trial, and we explain the results, their implications, and the backstory of what could be a blockbuster drug. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a busy week of earnings, a long-awaited FDA approval, and the highlights from STAT’s Breakthrough Summit in San Francisco.

256: Explaining the E.U.'s pharma overhaul, Lilly's booming business, & a long-awaited drug approval Apr 27, 2023

Andrew Joseph, STAT's Europe correspondent, joins us to explain the EU's sweeping proposal to overhaul how new drugs are regulated on the continent — and why the pharmaceutical industry is fighting it. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including Lilly's surging business, a pair of new drug approvals, and a novel idea in Alzheimer's disease.

255: Sarepta's pivotal moment, biotech's big week, & the future of Covid boosters Apr 20, 2023

Our colleague Helen Branswell joins us to explain the latest news on Covid-19 boosters and the implications of a Marburg outbreak in Equatorial Guinea. Then we dive into the long history of a gene therapy from Sarepta Therapeutics, a polarizing medicine that promises to change the lives of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. We also break down the rest of the week’s biggest news in biopharma, including some billion-dollar deals and the retirement of perhaps the most storied executive in the business.

254: The legal battle over abortion, an FDA 'bully pulpit' and Moderna's future Apr 13, 2023

Jeremy Levin, CEO of Ovid Therapeutics, joins us to discuss a judge’s decision to overturn the FDA approval of an abortion pill and why he believes it’s the biggest threat to the biopharma industry in 50 years. We also cover the biggest news in the week of biopharma, including an update from Moderna, dispatches from a trip to FDA headquarters, and who Sen. Bernie Sanders has in his sights next.

253: Illumina’s boardroom intrigue, the next big Alzheimer’s readout, & J&J’s creative lawyers Apr 06, 2023

Our colleague Matthew Herper joins us for a deep dive into Illumina, explaining how the biggest company in genome sequencing lost the faith of shareholders and painted itself into a corner. We’ll also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a look at what’s ahead in biotech for the second quarter of the year, and why Johnson & Johnson investors are happy the company is proposing to part with $9 billion.

252: Biotech's monkey shortage, the broken generics market, & conference cancel culture Mar 30, 2023

We explain how biotech is affected by a bizarre situation involving smuggled monkeys, international intrigue, and a criminal investigation. We also discuss what leads to generic drug shortages, whether every major pharmaceutical firm needs a weight-loss drug, and what it means when drug company cancels a conference appearance.

251: Bancel v. Bernie, Sarepta's FDA runaround, & Regeneron's ever-growing blockbuster Mar 23, 2023

We discuss the theatrical merits and actual implications of Moderna CEO Stéphane Bancel's appearance before a committee led by Sen. Bernie Sanders. We also talk about the latest news in the life sciences, including Regeneron Pharmaceuticals' latest data for its powerhouse drug Dupixent, an about-face for Sarepta Therapeutics, and how the FDA appears to view biomarkers in neurological diseases.

250: SVB's long biotech shadow, pushy AI algorithms, & Icahn v. Illumina Mar 16, 2023

STAT reporter Bob Herman joins us to explain how treatment algorithms powered by artificial intelligence are being used more frequently by Medicare Advantage plans to deny claims, even when continued treatment is medically justified. We’ll also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the continued fallout of the run on Silicon Valley Bank, the return of Carl Icahn, and a long-awaited pharmaceutical megadeal.

249: Robert Califf on how drugs get approved, plus the nascent revolution in obesity Mar 09, 2023

FDA Commissioner Robert Califf joins to discuss his first year on the job, the future of drug approvals, and how Duke basketball will do without Coach K. Then STAT’s Elaine Chen explains how powerful new weight loss medicines are reshaping medicine, the drug industry, and the society at large. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the results of a new Alzheimer's disease study and a potential breakthrough in cardiovascular medicine.

248: The next CRISPR fight, cheaper insulin, & an FDA shuffle Mar 02, 2023

Our colleague Allison DeAngelis joins us to explain how the latest CRISPR breakthrough is shaping up to be a free-for-all among a multitude of companies and labs, including some of the biggest names in biotech. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including Eli Lilly slashing the cost of insulin, succession at the FDA, and how pandemic boom times have turned to bust.

247: Vertex vs. insurers, Moderna's future, & biotech's long winter Feb 23, 2023

STAT’s Ed Silverman joins us to explain how an escalating fight between Vertex Pharmaceuticals and insurance companies has left patients and families caught in the middle. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the demise of a one-time unicorn, Moderna’s difficult second act, and an official biotech presidential run.

246: Vas Narasimhan on the future of pharma, plus Moderna’s promise & a biotech presidential bid Feb 16, 2023

Vas Narasimhan, CEO of Novartis and the new chairman of PhRMA, joins us to discuss the industry’s struggles in Washington and whether the deflated biotech sector is still overvalued. We also dive into the latest news in the life sciences, including Moderna's promise of no-cost Covid-19 vaccines and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy's potential run for president.

245: The return of bird flu and the effects of pandemic fatigue Feb 09, 2023

Helen Branswell, STAT’s senior writer covering infectious disease, joins us to explain the sudden resurgence of a bird flu virus called H5N1 and why experts are watching the situation closely.

244: Pharma blockbusters, pandemic policy, & legal chicanery Feb 02, 2023

STAT Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs joins us to explain the looming end of Covid-19's status as a federal emergency and what that does and doesn't mean for public health. We also dig into the most interesting stories from a busy week of pharmaceutical earnings and discuss a legal setback for Johnson & Johnson.

243: George Scangos' retirement, annual Covid vaccines, an Alzheimer's drug rejection Jan 26, 2023

George Scangos, the CEO of Vir Biotechnology, joins us to discuss his retirement and offer some perspective and lessons from a remarkable, 40-year career in biotech. We also chat about the latest news in the life sciences, including an FDA advisory meeting debating the necessity for annual Covid vaccinations, and a surprising, but perhaps not, rejection of Eli Lilly’s Alzheimer’s disease treatment.

242: How blockbusters get made, new vaccines for RSV, and mRNA's Q score Jan 19, 2023

Journalist Nathan Vardi joins us to talk about his new book delving into the race to develop the lifesaving cancer drug now called Imbruvica, involving a Scientologist CEO and secretive investor seeking redemption after the worst trade of his life. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including new vaccines for a vexing infection and the future of mRNA.

241: #JPM23 in review, the year ahead, & the merits of Miami Jan 12, 2023

With the 2023 J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference drawing to a close, we look back on the biggest news of the meeting, what it means for the year in biotech ahead, and whether the industry's biggest annual gathering might finally have outgrown its host city.

240: #JPM23, the future of Alzheimer's, & rising Covid variants Jan 05, 2023

First, we delve into a sweeping congressional investigation into the FDA's approval of the last treatment for Alzheimer's disease and what it means for the next one. We also preview the upcoming J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference and the biggest biotech events of 2023.

239: 2022 in review, CEO indictments, & the year ahead Dec 22, 2022

We look back on the biggest biotech stories of 2022 and how, despite some meaningful advances in Alzheimer's disease and gene therapy, the industry seems stuck in a sentiment rut. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a pair of indicted CEOs and the debate over how much an oft-debated new medicine should cost.

238: Leaky health data, ASH22, & what it takes to get booed by your peers Dec 15, 2022

Katie Palmer, STAT's health tech correspondent, joins us to explain how the explosive popularity of telehealth is putting sensitive patient information into the hands of Facebook, TikTok, and other big tech firms. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including highlights from a big hematology conference, a disastrous biotech IPO, and the downside of being a good quote.

237: The 'electric vehicles' of pharma, Illumina's boondoggle, & a Theranos sentencing Dec 08, 2022

STAT's Elaine Chen joins us to explain how the escalating demand for a potent diabetes drug is putting patients with obesity in a difficult situation. We also discuss a curious trend in biotech investing, the future of Illumina, and another sentencing in the Theranos saga.

236: Wither PhRMA, Alzheimer's treatment data revealed, and the first fecal microbiome drug approval Dec 01, 2022

STAT Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs joins us to explain how PhRMA, the all-powerful lobbying group, lost its edge in a fight over drug-pricing negotiation. Damian gives us the inside scoop on CTAD, the big Alzheimer's disease research conference, where Eisai and Biogen presented groundbreaking data on their treatment called lecanemab. We also discuss the FDA approval of a microbiome drug for the treatment of a bowel disorder and the potential for a big acquisition of Horizon Therapeutics.

235: LIVE from the STAT Summit Nov 17, 2022

How do Alzheimer’s drugs even work? Can biotech people bake? And do we even like one another? Recorded live from the 2022 STAT Summit, we discuss the failure of an Alzheimer’s disease treatment from Roche, the unexpected success of a competing one for Eisai, and some unpredictable questions from our audience.

234: Biogen's new CEO, how the midterms affect science, & a biotech bankruptcy Nov 10, 2022

STAT Washington correspondent Sarah Owermohle joins us to explain how this week's midterm elections will affect health and medicine, and what the politicization of the pandemic means for the future of science in the U.S. We also discuss the incoming CEOs of Biogen and Seagen, plus a pair of biotech collapses.

233: How the biotech revolution could come apart at the seams Nov 03, 2022

Our colleague Matthew Herper joins us to discuss his thoughtful, personal story on how the biotech revolution that brought us genome editing, Covid-19 vaccines, and lifesaving medicines could run aground if humanity can't get out of its own way.

232: Anti-science at the polls, a biotech odd couple, & the stakes of the midterms Oct 27, 2022

Our colleague Sarah Owermohle joins us to discuss how pandemic shutdowns, Covid-19 vaccines, and the prospect of arresting Anthony Fauci have become campaign rallying cries in midterm elections. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the potential effects of federal drug-price negotiation and the virtues of befriending Pharrell Williams.

231: BU's Covid tinkering, FDA on trial, & why it's hard to take drugs off the market Oct 20, 2022

Lawyer and bioethicist Holly Fernandez Lynch joins us to explain a watershed test of the FDA's authority to revoke drug approvals. And STAT's Helen Branswell calls in to discuss the headline-grabbing research at Boston University involving a lab-developed version of the virus that causes Covid-19.

230: BIO's messy transition, mRNA's future, & Biogen's next CEO Oct 13, 2022

STAT Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs joins us to explain the abrupt departure of the CEO of BIO, the lobbying group representing biotech on Capitol Hill, and its wider implications. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the future of mRNA, a promising startup closing its doors, and Biogen’s search for a new CEO.

229: Nobels for science, biotech dealmaking, & a friendly FTC Oct 06, 2022

The newest Nobel laureates got their phone calls from Stockholm this week, and STAT science writer Megan Molteni joins us to explain their prize-winning work in medicine and chemistry. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the state of biotech dealmaking and the evolution of Amylyx Pharmaceuticals.

228: A surprise success in Alzheimer's and how FDA history seeded modern controversy Sep 29, 2022

Lecanemab, a new Alzheimer's treatment from partners Biogen and Eisai, succeeded in a pivotal clinical trial, and we explain the surprising development and its sweeping implications. Then, oncologist Mikkael Sekeres joins us to talk about his new book, which is a history of the FDA and an insider’s look at one of the agency’s most contentious drug approval hearings.

227: Biden's Covid declaration, twilight of the SPAC, & genome editing 2.0 Sep 22, 2022

Heidi Tworek, a professor at the University of British Columbia and expert on public health communication, joins us to discuss President Biden's declaration that "the pandemic is over" and how leaders around the world are talking about Covid-19 as it enters its third year. We’ll also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including the twilight of the SPAC boom, the coming evolution of genome editing, and the next big trial in Alzheimer’s disease.

226: Pharma's telehealth gold mine, the return of the biotech IPO, & a merger deferred Sep 15, 2022

Our colleague Katie Palmer joins us to explain a burgeoning trend in pharmaceutical advertising that has health policy experts alarmed. We also discuss the White House's investment in biotech, a bellwether IPO, and the latest twist in the Merck-Seagen saga.

225: Illumina's $8 billion limbo, a new treatment for ALS, & Emirati biotech funding Sep 08, 2022

Our colleague Matthew Herper joins us to discuss how Illumina, the biggest company in genomic sequencing, got into an $8 billion predicament. We also discuss a dramatic development for a new ALS treatment, the latest in cancer research, and a well-funded new player in biotech venture capital.

224: The anti-aging research boom, the Godfather of biotech, & the future of Biogen Sep 01, 2022

Our colleague Megan Molteni joins us to explain the scientific discoveries, rampant hype, and Silicon Valley billions behind the burgeoning field of longevity research. Then, we discuss the remarkable career of Stelios Papadopoulos, the venerated Godfather of biotech who faces the daunting task of saving Biogen.

223: Fauci's non-retirement, grading biotech VCs, & a bellwether IPO Aug 25, 2022

Our colleague Helen Branswell joins to explain the Covid-19 booster debate, the Biden Administration’s monkeypox response, and the long career of the soon-to-step-down Anthony Fauci. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including a milestone for gene therapy, the tentative return of an IPO market, and the venture capital league table.

222: Private equity in autism care, a watershed FDA approval, & the future of ALS treatment Aug 18, 2022

First, STAT's Tara Bannow joins us to discuss how private equity's mounting interest in autism care has created an untenable situation for many parents in the U.S. We also explain the implications of Bluebird Bio's long-awaited FDA approval, a controversial treatment for ALS, and the ups and downs of Merck's reported interest in buying Seagen.

221: Big egos in Big Science, the return of Merger Monday, & the fallout over drug pricing Aug 11, 2022

Are biotech's fortunes finally changing? Is Big Science impeding actual science? And what will Medicare negotiation mean for drug prices? STAT's Jason Mast joins us to discuss Jim Wilson, a pioneering scientist synonymous with the rise of gene therapy who staffers say presided over a toxic, abusive workplace. We also explain the latest news in the life sciences, including a multibillion-dollar deal, a novel approach to treating schizophrenia, and what the Senate drug pricing legislation means for the pharmaceutical industry.

220: The last-minute push for drug pricing reform, Alnylam's success, and Sarepta's gamble Aug 04, 2022

Is drug pricing reform really happening this time? Are things finally turning around for biotech? And is it ever wise to tweet your food? Rachel Cohrs, STAT's Washington correspondent, joins us to explain how congressional Democrats are on the verge of a coup in drug pricing — and what could still stand in their way. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including some hotly anticipated data from Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, a $4 billion buyout deal, and other surprisingly good news for biotech.

219: Helen Branswell on monkeypox, plus: an FDA controversy and fake Alzheimer's data Jul 28, 2022

Can monkeypox be contained? Are snortable Covid-19 vaccines on the way? And when is a GIF worth $200,000? STAT's Helen Branswell joins us to explain the latest in the monkeypox outbreak and how health authorities are struggling to contain it. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including some faked Alzheimer’s data, a brewing FDA controversy, and what it means when a scientific discovery gets turned into an NFT.

218: Well-paid CEOs, behind the scenes at Moderna, & Biogen's CEO search Jul 21, 2022

Does any CEO deserve $500 million a year? How did Moderna hit it big? And who wants to run Biogen? STAT's Bob Herman joins us to explain why health care CEOs get paid so much — and why company-reported numbers don't tell the full story. Wall Street Journal reporter Peter Loftus calls in to talk about his book chronicling how Moderna went from secretive startup to household name. And we discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including Amazon's latest multibillion-dollar foray into primary care and Biogen's search for a new CEO.

217: CRISPR for the heart, biotech's recovery, & what it means to be a 'hot girl' Jul 14, 2022

Can CRISPR edit out a heart attack? What happens on #GutTok? And is health care recession-proof? Sek Kathiresan, cardiologist and CEO of Verve Therapeutics, joins us to explain the company's work on preventing heart disease with genome editing. Then, STAT's Isabella Cueto joins us to discuss "Hot girls have IBS," an internet in-joke that evolved into a movement for people with chronic illness. We also break down the latest news in the life sciences, including a long-awaited victory for Novavax and ostensible good news for biotech.

216: VC malaise, FDA confusion, & yet another Alzheimer's debate Jul 07, 2022

Is the era of the unicorn over? What's gotten into the FDA? And will a NASH drug ever work? Our colleague Allison DeAngelis joins us to explain how the prolonged downturn for biotech stocks is stoking anxiety among venture capitalists. We also discuss an FDA plot twist for a novel ALS treatment, a second shot for a once-promising liver drug, and the latest in the Covid-19 pandemic.

215: Medical privacy post-Roe, fixing clinical trials, & the next Covid vaccines Jun 30, 2022

How do you stop a Covid surge? Why are clinical trials so white? And what are the limits of HIPAA? Our colleague Eric Boodman joins us to discuss whether an oft-cited federal law can shield reproductive health data from state law enforcement in the wake of Roe v. Wade being overturned. Then, STAT's Angus Chen calls in to relate the story of an ambitious study and the quest to finally make clinical trials more equitable. We also explain a momentous FDA meeting and the debate over just what the Covid-19 vaccines of the future should contain.

214: Juul's doomsday, Merck's buyout plans, & the next Theranos verdict Jun 23, 2022

Just how powerful is the FDA? Is Merck about to spend $40 billion? And what's a "Puff Bar"? STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko joins us to discuss the FDA's decision to ban the sale of Juul Labs vaping products and a proposal to reduce the amount of nicotine in cigarettes. We’ll also explain the latest news in the life sciences, including a rumored blockbuster buyout and the next Theranos verdict.

213: How the Fed affects biotech, Paul Offit on vaccines for kids, & another Alzheimer's setback Jun 16, 2022

Will biotech stocks ever recover? How well do Covid-19 vaccines work for kids? And can anything stop the amyloid hypothesis? Longtime biotech investor Les Funtleyder joins us to explain why the recent interest rate hike is bad for biotech and just what it will take for the industry to get out of its slump. Then, vaccinologist and FDA adviser Paul Offit calls in to talk about the impending authorization of Covid-19 vaccines for young children and what it means for the future of the pandemic. We also explain the latest disappointing clinical trial in Alzheimer's disease and some perplexing data on Pfizer's Covid-19 antiviral.

212: Applause-worthy cancer data, the long wait for Novavax, & the next FDA controversy Jun 09, 2022

When is data "practice-changing"? How many Covid-19 vaccines do we need? And what does it mean when the FDA asks for more time? With the world's largest cancer conference just concluded, we explain the most important data presented at the meeting, including a blockbuster clinical trial that promises to change the treatment of advanced breast cancer. We also discuss an FDA controversy in the making, a pair of new Covid-19 vaccines, and the frustrating process of finding new treatments for depression.

211: Biotech's catch-22, a $100 genome, & dealing with monkeypox Jun 02, 2022

Will gene therapy ever live up to expectations? Can anyone break up the genomics monopoly? And is innovation actually bad for biotech? This week, health care strategist Jared Holz of Oppenheimer joins us to discuss the weekend's big oncology conference and what it will take to change Wall Street's dire view of the drug industry. We also discuss a weighty FDA meeting on gene therapy, the potential of a $100 genome, and how the expanding monkeypox outbreak is creating challenges for public health agencies.

210: Covid vaccines for the youngest kids, ASCO preview, & a biotech CEO’s arrest on murder charges May 26, 2022

ovid vaccines for the youngest kids are up for review, but which jab — Moderna or Pfizer — will parents choose? What’s on tap for ASCO, the biggest cancer research conference of the year? And a biotech CEO has been arrested in an alleged murder-for-hire scheme. First, we chat about the latest news in the life sciences. Then, we’re joined by physician and parent Jeremy Faust to discuss his take on the Covid vaccine data for children under 5.

Episode 209: Mysterious infections, dwindling Covid funds, & Shkreli out of prison May 19, 2022

What happens when the White House runs out of Covid-19 money? Why are kids suddenly getting mysterious infections? And who's going to hire Martin Shkreli? First, STAT's Helen Branswell joins us to explain the medical mystery of hepatitis appearing worldwide in young children, plus the sudden outbreak of monkeypox. Then, STAT Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs calls in to discuss how Congress' reluctance to pass a Covid funding bill might imperil the U.S. pandemic response just in time for a winter surge. We also chat about the latest news in the life sciences, including Clay Siegall's resignation and Martin Shkreli's release from federal prison.

Episode 208: A CEO's arrest, Pfizer's big deal, & Covid on the rise May 12, 2022

Is the next Covid surge upon us? How do you make $350,000 a day in biotech? And when did Seagen find out about its CEO's arrest? First, we discuss the latest alarming trends in the Covid-19 pandemic and explaining the curious case of Moderna's briefly employed chief financial officer. Then we pick apart the implications of Pfizer's $11.6 billion acquisition of Biohaven and the struggles of a once-promising idea in cancer immunotherapy. Finally, we examine the arrest of Seagen CEO Clay Siegall and the unanswered questions about the company's response.

Episode 207: Succession at Biogen, surprises at Vertex, & a potential superspreader dinner May 05, 2022

Who's going to run Biogen? Does Aduhelm have a future? And is it OK to shame reporters? This week, we delve into Biogen's twin announcements that the company is pulling the plug on Aduhelm and replacing its embattled CEO, discussing the future of Alzheimer's disease and just who might want to lead the company. We also explain the latest on Covid-19 vaccines, a strange situation for Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and the controversy surrounding the White House Correspondents' Dinner.

Episode 206: How cancer-killing cell therapies work, biotech's endless downturn, & an FDA conundrum Apr 28, 2022

Can rewired cells cure some patients' cancer? Do biotech stocks ever go up? And why's it taking so long to get kids vaccinated for Covid-19? Immunologist Katy Rezvani of MD Anderson Cancer Center joins us to explain the massive potential of a new approach to treating wily tumors, one that repurposes human immune cells. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including an interesting hire at Novartis, the pediatric Covid-19 vaccine saga, and another negative milestone for biotech.

Episode 205: An ominous biotech deal, vaccines for kids, & 'breakthrough' devices Apr 21, 2022

Can buyouts be bad news? Why can't Novavax meet a deadline? And what does "breakthrough" actually mean? First, we delve into why the latest big biotech acquisition has ominous implications for the downtrodden sector. Then, STAT's Mario Aguilar joins us to explain how a well-intentioned FDA program is benefiting companies over patients. We also discuss the latest pandemic news, including the ongoing debate over boosters and yet another delay for Novavax.

Episode 204: Leana Wen on the pandemic's new normal and whether Twitter is real life Apr 14, 2022

Are we supposed to just get used to superspreader events? What's going with Editas Medicine? And why are people on Twitter so angry? Leana Wen, an emergency medicine physician and public health professor at George Washington University, joins us to talk about the many complexities of living with Covid-19 and the tricky task of defining "normal" in 2022. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including Editas' new CEO, Aduhelm's future, and the data on Covid-19 vaccines for kids.

Episode 203: What's next for Roche, a debate over second boosters, & Vertex's recent success Apr 07, 2022

What's on tap for Roche and its closely followed cancer immunotherapy? Are we all headed for another jab with a Covid-19 vaccine? And what explains the recent success of Vertex Pharmaceuticals' R&D pipeline? This week, reporter Andrew Joseph joins us to discuss the FDA and its meeting with outside advisers that considered questions about Covid-19 boosters and the potential for updated vaccines that better match the circulating strains of SARS-CoV-2. We'll also dive into a look at Vertex and hear from its top executives about two experimental, but potentially groundbreaking, treatments for pain and type 1 diabetes. And as we often do, we’ll kick off the podcast with a Chatty Cathy round of hot takes on this week’s news.

Introducing: Color Code Mar 31, 2022

As long as there's been a medical system, it's been one that is rife with instances of mistreatment — both on the individual and community levels — that have harmful effects on how Black Americans view the health care system. In the first episode of the new STAT podcast Color Code, host Nick St. Fleur speaks with doctors, researchers, and a patient who are all trying to repair the relationship between Black people and the medical institution. You can find Color Code on any platform you use to get your podcasts. Episodes are released every other week.

Episode 202: Helen Branswell on the pandemic, plus the next FDA debate & the perks of being a CEO Mar 24, 2022

Are Covid-19 vaccines a sustainable business? Was Aduhelm an aberration? And what comes after Omicron? Senior writer Helen Branswell joins us to discuss the latest twists in the pandemic, including rising case counts, next-generation vaccines, and the latest data from pediatric trials. We also dive into the latest news in the life sciences, including Moderna's grand ambitions, Al Sandrock's new job, and the next big FDA debate.

Episode 201: Doing biotech in Ukraine, drug pricing déjà vu, & Covid surges overseas Mar 17, 2022

How should pharma treat Russia? Why can't Congress pass a drug pricing bill? And what does wastewater portend for the pandemic? First, we discuss the drug industry's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and STAT reporter Isabella Cueto joins us to explain how the war has affected the quietly vibrant Ukrainian biotech industry. Then, STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko calls in to review Congress' years of failure to pass laws on drug pricing and examine whether bipartisan support can ever result in actual legislation. We also run through the latest news in the life sciences, including Ashish Jha's new job, global Covid-19 surges, and a long-delayed manuscript from Biogen.

Episode 200: Gilead's growing pains, Covid's origins, & Theranos as prestige TV Mar 10, 2022

Can biotech companies age gracefully? Where did Covid-19 come from? And does Theranos make for good television? We cover all that and more this week. We examine Gilead Sciences' recent struggles and what the company's predicament says about the drug industry. Then, MIT Technology Review reporter Antonio Regalado joins us to discuss his new podcast investigating the origins of Covid-19. We also discuss the latest Theranos trial, playing Elizabeth Holmes on TV, and how we managed to make 200 episodes of this show.

Episode 199: Biden's plans for Covid pills, the latest vaccine data, & fighting about CRISPR Mar 03, 2022

Is "test to treat" too good to be true? Does it really matter who gets credit for CRISPR? And what's the offramp for Covid-19? We cover all that and more this week. Physician and researcher Kavita Patel joins us to explain why President Biden's plans for Covid-19 — including an ambitious idea to distribute antiviral treatments — might not be so simple. We also discuss some milestone data in the quest to turn CRISPR into medicine and the latest twist in the quest to figure out who invented it.

Episode 198: Medical racism, new Covid vaccines, & the resilience of Regeneron Feb 24, 2022

How many Covid-19 vaccines does the world really need? What will it take to address inequality in American health care? And should people be nicer to Moderna? First, we discuss the latest news in Covid-19 vaccines, including data from Sanofi and GlaxoSmithKline, the future of Novavax, and what comes next for Moderna. Then, STAT’s Usha Lee McFarling joins us to talk about a groundbreaking investigation into racial and ethnic disparities in American medicine — and why almost nothing has changed in the 20 years since it was published.

Episode 197: Robert Califf's FDA return, the future of CRISPR, & another vaccine delay Feb 17, 2022

Will there be a new ALS drug this year? What business does Wall Street have with CRISPR? And when can kids get Covid-19 vaccines? We cover all that and more this week. First, STAT's Nicholas Florko joins us to preview the trials ahead for Robert Califf as he retakes the reins at the FDA — including a high-profile decision on a new treatment for ALS. Then, CRISPR pioneer Jennifer Doudna and financier Marty Chavez join us to talk about the future of genome editing and the investments they plan to make in it. We also discuss the latest on Eric Lander, the Covid-19 vaccine meeting that wasn't, and the future of Chinese-developed cancer drugs.

Episode 196: Eric Lander's resignation, FDA's about-face, & Pfizer's lucrative pandemic Feb 10, 2022

Does Big Science have a bullying problem? Why did the FDA change its tune on China? And what's cooler than $100 billion? We cover all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. We discuss the scandalous end of Eric Lander's tenure as presidential science adviser with STAT Washington correspondent Lev Facher and science writer Megan Molteni. Then we dive into the FDA's about-face on cancer drugs developed in China and what it means for the cost of medicine in the U.S. We also explain how Pfizer's record-setting year somehow disappointed Wall Street and explore whether it's a good idea to end mask mandates.

Episode 195: Califf's sudden jeopardy, the quest for a PCSK9 pill, & Covid vaccines for kids Feb 03, 2022

Does President Biden care about the FDA? What can aerobics instructors teach us about genetics? And when can kids get Covid-19 vaccines? STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko joins us to chat about why Robert Califf, once a shoo-in to be the next FDA commissioner, is suddenly in serious jeopardy. Then, we examine one of the coolest drug-discovery stories in medicine with Merck’s head of research, Dean Li, who joins us to talk about the company’s efforts to develop an oral cholesterol pill targeting PCSK9.

Episode 194: Janet Woodcock on Covid antibodies, vaccines for kids, and responding to Omicron Jan 27, 2022

Who gets to be an "expert" on Covid-19? Are Americans entitled to drugs that don't work? And how does the FDA deal with states' rights? First, we discuss the FDA's decision to halt the use of two Covid-19 antibodies that don't work against Omicron — and the surprising backlash that ensued. Then, acting FDA commissioner Janet Woodcock joins us to dig into the agency's move and discuss the steps for regulation of Covid drugs. We also go over the latest news in the life sciences, including some bad news for Gilead Sciences and a rare victory for a small biotech company.

Episode 193: Jared Holz on Biotech's red tape, plus the latest billionaire science project Jan 20, 2022

With biotech in the dumps, we talk to Oppenheimer analyst Jared Holz about why the world has soured on the sector and what it means for the future of medicine. Then, STAT’s Matthew Herper joins us to explain the latest big idea from biotech's big thinkers: a company called Altos Labs, which has raised $3 billion to do something or other. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, with a cameo from Shkreli and an update on Omicron.

Episode 192: Michael Gilman on the future of RNA drugs, plus #JPM22 in review and more Biogen news Jan 13, 2022

First, STAT health tech correspondent Katie Palmer joins us to recap the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference. Then, we discuss the latest twist in Biogen's quest to expand the use of Aduhelm and what it means for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Finally, Arrakis Therapeutics CEO Michael Gilman calls in to explain how targeting RNA can treat disease and why the characters in "Dune" don't just shoot each other with laser guns.

Episode 191: Craig Spencer on the Omicron surge + biotech in 2022, & the Elizabeth Holmes verdict Jan 06, 2022

First, emergency room physician Craig Spencer joins us to talk about how the Omicron variant is impacting New York City and what the coming months have in store. Then, we look ahead to the New Year in biotech with a preview of the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference. We start with a look at the latest news in the life sciences, including Elizabeth Holmes' guilty verdict and the ongoing Aduhelm saga.

Episode 190: Covid in 2022, J.P. Morgan bows to pressure, & the year in review Dec 16, 2021

We've come to our last episode of the year, and first, STAT’s Helen Branswell joins us to talk about Omicron, boosters, and the past and future of the Covid-19 pandemic. Then, we'll review the year that was in biotech, discuss the suddenly virtual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, and look forward to 2022.

Episode 189: Biogen, Biogen, Biogen, with a dash of Omicron Dec 09, 2021

On this week's episode, we kick off the conversation with an update on what researchers are discovering about the Omicron variant of the coronavirus, including new findings from a study involving the Pfizer Covid vaccine. Then, we'll shift the talk to this week's blockbuster STAT story about Biogen and the all the behind-the-scenes turmoil caused by its controversial treatment for Alzheimer's.

Episode 188: Carlos del Rio on Covid antivirals, an FDA conundrum, & the rise of Omicron Dec 02, 2021

Will the first Covid-19 pill be all that useful? How worrisome is Omicron? And when will it be safe to congregate? First, STAT's Matthew Herper joins us to talk about a tense debate among FDA advisers about molnupiravir, a Merck treatment for Covid-19 whose luster has faded over time. Then, we talk to Emory University’s Carlos del Rio about the potential of Pfizer’s antiviral pill, the future treatment landscape for Covid-19, and how the emerging Omicron variant might change the global pandemic response.

Episode 187: Biogen’s scientific succession & Michael Osterholm on pandemic Thanksgiving Nov 18, 2021

First, epidemiologist Michael Osterholm of the University of Minnesota joins us to talk about Covid-19 case counts, vaccination rates, and the state of the pandemic as we head into the holidays. Then, we discuss the surprising news that Al Sandrock, Biogen’s long-time chief scientist, is leaving the company after a tumultuous year.

Episode 186: Rebecca Robbins on Moderna v. NIH, plus psilocybin as a medicine Nov 11, 2021

Rebecca Robbins of the New York Times joins us to discuss the escalating tension between Moderna and the National Institutes of Health over just who invented a Covid-19 vaccine. Then, STAT's Olivia Goldhill calls in to explain Compass Pathways' promising results using psilocybin as a treatment for depression and the future of the nascent field of psychedelic medicines. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including pills for Covid-19, the next FDA commissioner, and whether Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla listens to Joe Rogan.

Episode 185: John Maraganore on his next act, plus Moderna's setback & the drug pricing reform saga Nov 04, 2021

STAT's Rachel Cohrs drops in to talk about the latest updates in drug pricing reform. Then, John Maraganore joins us to talk about his decision to step down as CEO of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals after almost 20 years with the company. We also discuss the latest news in biotech, including the Covid-19 vaccine for kids and Moderna's disappointing earnings call.

Episode 184: Vaccines for kids, inside Operation Warp Speed, & a big biotech resignation Oct 28, 2021

Can the FDA be too transparent? Who deserves credit for Operation Warp Speed? And when is a CEO worth $3 billion? We cover all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. STAT's Helen Branswell joins us to discuss the whirlwind of FDA debates around who should get vaccines for Covid-19 and the coming months of pandemic response. Then, Brendan Borrell calls in to talk about his book, "The First Shots," a behind-the-scenes look at Operation Warp Speed and the race to develop those vaccines. We also discuss the surprise announcement that longtime Alynlam Pharmaceuticals CEO John Maraganore is soon to leave the company.

Episode 183: Greg Zuckerman on the vaccine race, plus Biogen's troubled launch Oct 21, 2021

Wall Street Journal reporter Gregory Zuckerman joins us to share some behind-the-scenes details from race to develop a Covid-19 vaccine, the subject of his new book. We also discuss the latest news in the life sciences, including Biogen’s failure to launch, the plight of a Covid pill, and a headline-grabbing statement from one of biotech’s most famous scientists.

Episode 182: The FDA star search, more booster debates, & the future of mRNA Oct 14, 2021

STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko joins us to provide an inside look at the eleventh-hour search for a permanent FDA commissioner. We also discuss the latest twist in the debate over Covid-19 vaccine boosters, some upheaval in the world of genome editing, and a little news for parents from one Scott Gottlieb.

Episode 181: Brent Hodge on filming Shkreli, the next NIH director, and a looming FDA deadline Oct 07, 2021

First, we discuss the scramble to find new leaders for the NIH and FDA, the latest online dustup involving Ginkgo Bioworks, and the growing promise of antiviral treatments for Covid-19. Then, filmmaker Brent Hodge joins us to discuss his documentary "Pharma Bro," which chronicles the trial, conviction, and prolific livestreaming of one Martin Shkreli.

Episode 180: Health equity 'tourism,' an $11B biopharma acquisition, & a bony Covid protest Sep 30, 2021

First, we welcome STAT reporter Usha Lee McFarling onto the podcast to discuss her investigation into health equity tourism — how white scholars are colonizing research on health disparities. Then, we "chatty Cathy" a blizzard of biotech news from this week, including Merck's $11 billion acquisition of Acceleron Pharma, a theatrical street protest about the Covid vaccine equity dive, a debate about gene therapy's future, and, finally, why Scott Gottlieb is looking up at Elvira.

Episode 179: Scott Gottlieb on the next pandemic, another Covid winter, & Aduhelm's slow rollout Sep 23, 2021

First, STAT's Helen Branswell joins us to discuss the state of the Covid-19 pandemic as we head into another winter. Then, former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb calls in to discuss his new book on how the U.S. got caught off guard and what the government needs to do before the next pandemic hits. We start with a look at the latest news in the life sciences, including the booster debate, Biogen's trouble selling its controversial Alzheimer's drug, and the awkward pairing of beer and face masks.

Episode 178: Futuristic prosthetics, a treatment for ALS, & intrigue at the Holmes trial Sep 16, 2021

Can prosthetic limbs feel real? Is the FDA softening under pressure? And are Rice Krispies Treats admissible in court? STAT's Gideon Gil joins us to share the remarkable story of an amputation surgery that makes a phantom limbs feel like the real thing. Then we discuss the FDA's surprising reversal on a new treatment for ALS and whether it signals a sea change within the agency. We start with a look at the latest news in the life sciences, including the debate over Covid-19 vaccine boosters, the future of in-person conferences, and a mysterious sweet-toothed observer at Elizabeth Holmes's fraud trial.

Episode 177: Bijan Salehizadeh on Covid tests, plus Verily's moment of truth Sep 09, 2021

First, STAT's Erin Brodwin joins us to talk about Verily, Google's big-idea life sciences company that is now under pressure to produce some actual products. Then, health care investor Bijan Salehizadeh calls in to discuss the dearth of rapid Covid-19 tests in the U.S. and how industry, regulators, and lawmakers share the blame. We also take a look at the latest news in biotech, including Biogen's troubled launch of Aduhelm, Moderna's long-term scientific ambitions, and a big day for the Waksal brothers.

Episode 176: Elizabeth Holmes on trial, FDA in disarray, & the quest for Covid antivirals Sep 02, 2021

Former Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes is finally headed to trial, and we discuss the case and why it might not be an open-and-shut conviction for prosecutors. Then, STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko joins us to explain the latest upheaval at the FDA, which arrives just as the agency faces mounting pressure to speed up the review of Covid-19 vaccines. We also discuss the race to develop antivirals for SARS-CoV-2 and why the eyelash-growth business is booming.

Episode 175: Dorit Reiss on vaccine mandates, plus biotech's messy summer Aug 26, 2021

First, law professor Dorit Reiss joins us to discuss what the first FDA approval of a Covid-19 vaccine means for vaccination mandates and how this whole issue relates to jaywalking. Then we discuss biotech's messy summer, which has brought allegations of data manipulation, sloppy clinical development, and questionable transparency. We also run through the latest news in the life sciences, including the evolving booster shot debate and a Netflix film about the perils of pharmaceutical greed.

Episode 174: Biotech's trust issues, overwhelmed health workers, & the nuances of insider trading Aug 19, 2021

First, we discuss a sudden spike of FDA rejections, which has resurfaced a time-honored frustration: You can’t always trust biotech companies to be honest about their conversations with the agency. Then, STAT's Lev Facher joins us to share his reporting from Louisiana, where a surge of Covid-19 deaths among the unvaccinated is having devastating effects on health workers. Before that, we talk about a curious case of alleged insider trading, medical conferences in the time of Delta, and the global vaccine push.

Episode 173: Biden's drug pricing plan, Wall Street's Alzheimer's fixation, & daily 5 a.m. alarms Aug 12, 2021

First, STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko joins us to explain President Biden's proposal to lower drug prices, how it might affect the 2022 election, and why there's still no nominee for FDA commissioner. Then, Shraddha Chakradhar calls in to look back on her time running STAT’s flagship newsletter, Morning Rounds. We also discuss the rise of Covid-19 mandates, Canada's biotech ambitions, and Wall Street's exuberance over new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

Episode 172: The mRNA gold rush, Delta's alarming rise, & the next treatment for Alzheimer's Aug 05, 2021

First, we dive into the potential of mRNA, a technology that proved itself with Covid-19 vaccines and is now seeding a pharmaceutical gold rush. Then, STAT's Helen Branswell joins us to discuss the state of the pandemic, the implications of the Delta variant, and the debate around booster shots. We also dissect the week's news in biotech, included Amgen's tax problems, a meltdown in synthetic biology, and the latest on Aduhelm.

Episode 171: The quest for a Covid pill, a microbiome gut-check, & CRISPR on the big screen Jul 29, 2021

First, we discuss the CDC's about-face on mask wearing, the debate over vaccine booster shots, and the slow but steady race to develop pills for Covid-19. Then, STAT's Kate Sheridan joins us to discuss a setback in the field of microbiomics and the mounting skepticism over whether tinkering with gut bacteria can eventually treat a host of diseases. We also break down the latest fallout from the FDA's approval of Aduhelm, the sorry state of biotech stocks, and an in-development feature film about CRISPR.

Episode 170: Céline Gounder on breakthrough infections, plus the power of lobbying Jul 22, 2021

First, Céline Gounder of NYU’s Grossman School of Medicine joins us to discuss the issue of breakthrough coronavirus infections and whether the U.S. was too quick to unmask. Then, STAT's Rachel Cohrs calls in to share the curious case of the moderate Democrat who made thousands of dollars in pharma donations within two days of attacking a drug pricing bill. We also discuss Biogen's latest defense of Aduhelm, the debate over Johnson & Johnson's Covid-19 vaccine, and the latest movie casting Big Pharma as a villain.

Episode 169: Dan Diamond on covering Biden, plus the FDA's future, & the latest Aduhelm twist Jul 15, 2021

First, we'll talk about the future of the FDA, whose acting commissioner will have to step down in November unless she’s given the permanent job. Next, Washington Post reporter Dan Diamond joins us to discuss the politics of the vaccine rollout and how covering this administration differs from writing about the last one. Plus we break down the latest news on Covid-19 and the continued Aduhelm fallout.

Episode 168: Aduhelm's latest twist, & how Covid variants are shaping the summer Jul 08, 2021

First, we discuss the latest twists following the FDA's widely condemned decision to approve Aduhelm, Biogen's treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Then, our STAT colleague Helen Branswell joins us to talk about whether viral variants are going to stymie the U.S.'s summer reopening. Finally, STAT's Mario Aguilar calls in to break down the record-setting sums going into digital health companies in 2021.

Episode 167: George Yancopoulos on biotech in 2021, plus a CRISPR milestone, Biogen's FDA saga, Jul 01, 2021

First we talk to George Yancopoulos, head scientist at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, about the future of CRISPR genome editing and the latest idea for treating obesity. Then, we discuss STAT's reporting on the cozy relationship between Biogen and the FDA ahead of Aduhelm's approval and what the ensuing fallout might mean. Before all that, we chat about the latest news in biotech, including vaccine boosters and a decadelong debacle.

Episode 166: FDA inner workings, GSK's foggy future, & the alarming rise in colorectal cancer Jun 24, 2021

First, we sift through the week's news, with a major update from Eli Lilly in Alzheimer's disease and new details on the inner workings of the FDA. Then, STAT's Matthew Herper joins us to discuss how GlaxoSmithKline ended up in a self-preservation struggle. Finally, STAT's Nicholas St. Fleur calls in to talk about the alarming rise of colorectal cancer deaths among young men and his decision to get on an on-camera colonoscopy for a reporting project.

Episode 165: Paul Offit on the Covid vaccine booster debate, & Robyn Karnauskas' call of the decade Jun 17, 2021

First, we sift through the week's news, with some disappointing Covid-19 vaccine data, a pair of setbacks for biotech, and the Wall Street debut of 23andMe. Then, vaccinologist Paul Offit joins us to explain the scientific debate over whether we'll need booster vaccine doses to stay protected from SARS-CoV-2. Finally, Truist Securities analyst Robyn Karnauskas calls in to talk about her bold 2020 prediction that Biogen's controversial treatment for Alzheimer's disease would eventually win FDA approval.

Episode 164: Every angle on the FDA's polarizing approval of Biogen's Alzheimer's drug Jun 10, 2021

We're devoting this entire episode to the FDA's polarizing decision to approve Aduhelm, a controversial Biogen treatment for Alzheimer's disease. First, we'll break down what happened and why it's such a big deal, and then we'll talk about the broader implications for science, medicine, and the drug industry as a whole. Finally, we'll zoom out explore how the FDA got to this moment in a conversation with Yale University professor and global health activist Gregg Gonsalves.

Episode 163: Marilynn Marchione on covering the CRISPR babies scandal Jun 03, 2021

First, we discuss why it's so hard to predict FDA decisions, and why the latest big deal in biotech left investors cold. Then, STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko joins us for a dive into the thousands of emails from Anthony Fauci made public this week, complete with a top-five countdown of messages both impactful and absurd. Finally, longtime Associated Press medical reporter Marilynn Marchione retired last week, and she calls in to talk about the biggest stories of her career.

Episode 162: Scott Gottlieb on Covid and grilling, plus how Zolgensma has changed SMA May 27, 2021

STAT's Andrew Joseph joins us to talk about the two-year anniversary of the approval of gene therapy Zolgensma and the effect it has had on families dealing with the rare disease spinal muscular atrophy. Then, former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb calls in with tips on Memorial Day grilling, notes on a recent Twitter spat, and thoughts on the origins of SARS-CoV-2.

Episode 161: Biotech meme stocks, the lessons of Spanish Flu, & becoming a pandemic celebrity May 20, 2021

First, we discuss Ginkgo Bioworks, the multibillion-dollar biotech company with grand ambitions, a famous ticker symbol, and an affinity for memes. Then, STAT’s Helen Branswell joins us to discuss a topic on everyone’s mind: How will the Covid-19 pandemic end? Finally, we’ll talk about the modern phenomenon of the pandemic celebrity and the case of Ashish Jha, TV’s ever-present Covid-19 expert.

Episode 160: Global Covid-19 failures, a sluggish CDC, and a boisterous STAT Health Tech Summit May 13, 2021

Can we prevent the next Covid-19? Has the CDC become too cautious? And how many sensors should be worn to bed? First, our colleague Helen Branswell joins us to discuss where the world went wrong with Covid-19 and how to prepare for the next pandemic. Next, STAT D.C. correspondent Nicholas Florko calls in to talk about the public health experts who believe the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has been too sluggish and conservative in recent months. Finally, our colleague Nick St. Fleur joins to recap this week’s STAT Health Tech Summit, which featured some boisterous CEOs, ambitious startups, and promising technologies.

Episode 159: Thomas Bollyky on patent waivers, plus vaccine riches, & a gene therapy for aging May 06, 2021

First, Moderna and Pfizer are poised to make billions of dollars from their Covid-19 vaccines this year, and we discuss what that massive infusion of cash portends for both companies. Next, Thomas Bollyky of the Council on Foreign Relations joins us to explain what the U.S.'s support for waiving Covid-19 vaccine patents means — and doesn’t mean — for the global vaccination effort. Finally, STAT’s Megan Molteni calls in to share the story of a little-known biotech company recruiting patients to Mexico with the promise of an anti-aging gene therapy in an unregulated clinical trial.

Episode 158: Angela Rasmussen on Russia's vaccine controversy, plus Biden's drug pricing punt Apr 29, 2021

First, STAT Washington correspondent Rachel Cohrs joins us to explain why President Biden's endorsement for drug pricing reform rang hollow to many advocates. Next, virologist Angela Rasmussen calls in to discuss the controversy around a Russian-produced vaccine for Covid-19. Finally, STAT's Kate Sheridan joins us to talk about how a shortage of cheap, little-discussed plastic tools is hobbling scientific labs around the world.

Episode 157: Mercedes Carnethon on outdoor masking, FDA in limbo, & gene therapy's uncertain upside Apr 22, 2021

First, Northwestern University epidemiologist Mercedes Carnethon joins us to weigh on the nation's latest Covid-19 debate: Is it OK to go maskless outdoors? Then, STAT Washington correspondent Nicholas Florko calls in to talk about why the Biden administration is waiting so long to nominate an FDA commissioner and how that indecision could have real consequences. Later, we discuss the scientific promise of novel treatments for sickle cell disease — and the industry's growing concern that they might not be as lucrative as once thought. And, naturally, we recap the latest news in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout.

Episode 156: J&J's vaccine pause, talking about remote risks, & why no new drugs for Covid-19 Apr 15, 2021

How do you describe a one-in-a-million risk? What's heparin-induced thrombocytopenia? And why's it so hard to find drugs for Covid-19? We cover all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. First, Science Magazine reporter Kai Kupferschmidt joins us to discuss the U.S. decision to press pause on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine and what researchers have learned about rare cases of dangerous clotting. Then, biotech analyst Josh Schimmer joins us to talk about why the drug industry has had such a hard time coming up with treatments for Covid-19 and offer some tips that might help in the next pandemic.

Episode 155: AstraZeneca's vaccine woes, compassionate use, & giving out Covid vaccines Apr 08, 2021

What's next for AstraZeneca? Are there any right answers when it comes to compassionate use? And how does it feel to give someone a Covid-19 vaccine? We cover all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. First, we discuss the latest in a long series of issues for AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine and the implications for the global pandemic response. Next, we dive into the dilemma over compassionate use, talking to Biogen's former PR chief about the struggle over whether — and how — desperate patients should be able to access experimental medicines. Finally, we interview a registered nurse in Boston about what it's like to bring joy, relief, and reassurance to thousands of people by injecting them with Covid-19 vaccines.

Episode 154: Eleanor Fox on Illumina’s FTC headache, plus Talkspace’s experiment Apr 01, 2021

First, STAT’s Mario Aguilar joins us to discuss a fascinating experiment in Nevada, where one city is giving its residents free access to a therapy app — and getting a mixed reception. Then, New York University antitrust expert Eleanor Fox calls in to discuss the case of Illumina, the genome sequencing giant whose grand plans keeping running afoul of the Federal Trade Commission. Finally, we embark on a lightning round, covering the latest Covid-19 vaccine news, biotech’s biggest events over the next three months, and the death of a pioneering Gilead Sciences executive.

Episode 153: AstraZeneca and the very good, then quite bad, then deeply confusing week Mar 25, 2021

We're devoting this week's episode to the week of whiplash news about AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine, subject of a baffling international incident with consequences still unfolding. First, we explain the series of late-night announcements that made global headlines. Then, our STAT colleague Helen Branswell joins us to discuss the implications for AstraZeneca, vaccine confidence, and the global effort to get doses in arms. Finally, STAT's Matthew Herper calls in to talk about Pascal Soriot, the hard-charging AstraZeneca CEO whose previously feted boldness might have backfired when it came to Covid-19.

Episode 152: Alison Buttenheim on Europe's vaccine scare, Lilly's Alzheimer's data, & a PR plea Mar 18, 2021

First we unpack the crisis of confidence facing AstraZeneca's Covid-19 vaccine in Europe with Alison Buttenheim, a University Pennsylvania professor who studies vaccine acceptance. Then, we explain the latest data on an Alzheimer's disease treatment from Eli Lilly and why it has polarized experts in the field. Finally, we make a modest proposal to the biotech industry: Give honesty a chance.

Episode 151: Natasha Loder on Covid vaccines, the demise of Watson Health, and a 'synbio' explainer Mar 11, 2021

We're joined by Natasha Loder, the health policy editor at The Economist — and a London resident — to get her home-country perspective on the U.K.'s Covid vaccine development efforts. Next, we'll talk with STAT national technology correspondent Casey Ross about his yearslong investigation into the demise of Watson Health, IBM's AI health care initiative. Finally, STAT's Meghana Keshavan joins us for a primer into synthetic biology, including its role in making the mRNA-based Covid vaccines.

Episode 150: Ashish Jha on Covid-19 optimism, plus pharma cooperation, & the next pandemic phase Mar 04, 2021

We discuss Merck's decision to help Johnson & Johnson manufacture vaccine doses and whether it'll be a turning point for the drug industry or a relic of Covid-19 history. Then, as we near the one-year anniversary of the pandemic, STAT's Andrew Joseph joins us to explain what experts think is in store in the months and years to come. Finally, Ashish Jha, dean of Brown University’s School of Public Health, joins us to explain why he's optimistic about summer 2021.

Episode 149: Nancy Goodman on Covid vaccines for kids, & Greg Zuckerman on Novavax's remarkable rise Feb 25, 2021

First, pediatric cancer advocate Nancy Goodman joins us to discuss why she believes Covid-19 vaccine trials need to be sped up for teens and children. Then, Wall Street Journal reporter Greg Zuckerman calls in to explain the unlikely story behind Novavax, a former biotech penny stock now on the verge of making history. Finally, we embark on a lightning round, featuring quick takes on the confirmation process for a new health secretary and the future of therapeutic stool.

Episode 148: Akshay Sharma on gene therapy's setback, biotech's brashest VCs, & the FDA's future Feb 18, 2021

We discuss all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. First, we break down a significant setback for Bluebird Bio’s gene therapy program with some help from Akshay Sharma, a bone marrow transplant expert at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Then, STAT's Kate Sheridan joins us to discuss her deep dive into Flagship Pioneering, the superlatively successful and frequently grandiose venture firm behind Moderna. Finally, we dig into what the future might hold for a post-Trump FDA, which remains without a permanent commissioner.

Episode 147: David Fajgenbaum on Covid-19 drugs, the state of the pandemic, & meme biotech stocks Feb 11, 2021

When will we have enough vaccine doses? How many effective Covid-19 drugs are just waiting to be found? And what do Redditors think about biotech? We discuss all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. First, we check in with our colleague Helen Branswell for her view on the current state of the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing vaccine rollout. Then, we're joined by David Fajgenbaum, a physician and scientist at the University of Pennsylvania, to talk about his work to identify and develop treatments for people with Covid-19. Lastly, we embark on a lightning round, covering Gilead Sciences' latest setback, a schism in Alzheimer's disease research, and a preview of the newest podcast from STAT.

Episode 146: Paul Offit on vaccine data, 23andMe is going public, & Merck's CEO is retiring Feb 04, 2021

We discuss all that and more this week on “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. First, we recap a busy week of news, featuring 23andMe's move to go public through a blank-check company, Merck CEO Ken Frazier's retirement after three decades at the drug maker, and how the future of Biogen’s Alzheimer’s disease drug got a little more complicated. Then, Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, joins us to weigh in on the bounty of recent Covid-19 vaccine data from Johnson & Johnson, Novavax, and AstraZeneca. Finally, STAT's Casey Ross calls in to discuss his investigation into the FDA's chaotic approach to approving medical products that use artificial intelligence.

Episode 145: Kevin Davies on the CRISPR boom, & Megan Ranney on scientific misinformation Jan 28, 2021

First, we discuss the implications of Johnson & Johnson’s any-day-now data on a one-shot vaccine for Covid-19. Then, Kevin Davies, executive editor of the CRISPR Journal, joins us to talk about the strange boom in genome editing stocks and the future of the revolutionary technology. Finally, we talk to Megan Ranney, an emergency room physician and Brown University professor, about the challenges of Covid-19 science communication in a post-Trump world.

Episode 144: Remembering STAT's Sharon Begley Jan 22, 2021

We're spending this entire episode remembering Sharon Begley, our revered and beloved colleague who died last week from complications of lung cancer. First, STAT's Eric Boodman joins us to discuss Sharon's path-breaking career and what he learned from reporting out her obituary. Then, a trio of STAT editors call in to talk about what it was like to work with Sharon, and we hear from number of her colleagues about what made her a singular writer, mentor, officemate, and friend.

Episode 143: #JPM21: Déjà vu in Alzheimer's research, and OWS's legacy Jan 14, 2021

We're devoting this episode to the news coming out of the just-concluded J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, the drug industry's largest annual meeting. First, we'll dissect Eli Lilly's surprising data on a new Alzheimer's disease treatment and dig into its implications for the field. Then, we discuss whether there's a bubble inflating in the genome editing world, debate who will run the FDA under a President Biden, and consider the legacy of Moncef Slaoui, the outgoing leader of Operation Warp Speed.

Episode 142: Bob Nelsen on the pandemic's next phase, plus Biden's biopharma plans & a CES preview Jan 07, 2021

On this year's first episode, STAT Washington correspondent Lev Facher joins us to break down the implications of a Democrat-controlled Senate. Then, our colleague Erin Brodwin calls in to talk about CES, the massive tech conference taking place next week. Finally, we chat with Bob Nelsen, a biotech venture capitalist and one of the few people who saw the coming pandemic with clarity months before everyone else, about what's ahead in 2021.

Episode 141: Moderna's vaccine milestone, Warp Speed's hurdles, and biotech in 2021 Dec 18, 2020

It's the final episode of 2020. We dig into the second vaccine that's been recommended by a panel of FDA advisors, and look ahead to see what's in store for biotech in 2021.

Episode 140: Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine — the debate, details, and distribution Dec 11, 2020

Are Covid-19 vaccines safe for teens? Is the U.S. taking too long to authorize one? And how do you prepare for an FDA grilling?

Episode 139: Angela Rasmussen on AstraZeneca's confusing data, & Adam Koppel on biotech in 2021 Dec 03, 2020

Can too much Covid-19 vaccine be a bad thing? Is biotech in a bubble? And how do you make blind mice see again?

Episode 138: The latest Covid-19 vaccine, Biden's pandemic plans, and Bill Gates unfiltered Nov 19, 2020

How do we measure whether Covid-19 vaccines work? What does Joe Biden think of the drug industry? And does Anthony Fauci think about retirement?

Episode 137: Natalie Dean on Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine, plus the FDA's Alzheimer's quandary Nov 12, 2020

How well does Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine work? What's the difference between efficacy and effectiveness? And should the FDA approve Biogen's Alzheimer's drug?

Bracing for a pandemic winter, Biogen's fortune at the FDA, and remembering a remarkable 12-year-old Nov 05, 2020

How bad will this winter be? Is everything coming up Biogen? And who's going to be president on Jan. 20? We discuss all that and more on this week's episode of “The Readout LOUD,” STAT's biotech podcast. First, STAT's Helen Branswell joins us to discuss what the winter has in store for the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Then, we discuss the latest surprising twist in Biogen’s quest to win FDA approval for a polarizing treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Finally, STAT reporter Casey Ross joins to talk about the recent death and legacy of Bertrand Might, a 12-year boy born with a rare genetic disease.

Episode 135: Pfizer's Covid-19 mystery, Ashish Jha on pandemic response, & STAT turns 5 Oct 29, 2020

When are we getting Covid-19 vaccine data? Will concerts ever be safe again? And what's a "Bionomy"?

Episode 134: Erik Gordon on SPACs, plus Covid-19 vaccines, & Biogen's case in Alzheimer's Oct 22, 2020

Who's voice rings loudest at the FDA? Is it wise to give hedge funds a blank check? And how will the Biogen saga end?

Episode 133: A week of pauses, pharma’s statehouse spending, & how HBCUs approach Covid-19 trials Oct 15, 2020

Is your local lawmaker flush with pharma cash? How does racism in medicine loom over Covid-19 studies? And who decides when a clinical trial goes on pause?

Episode 132: How Trump's case of Covid-19 affects biotech, medicine, and the FDA with George Scangos Oct 08, 2020

Why is the president making drug ads? Are antibodies the new vaccines? And is it ethical for doctors to talk about President Trump's health?

Episode 131: Saad Omer on Covid-19 vaccine trials, & Ethan Weiss on intermittent fasting Oct 01, 2020

Can an itchy arm ruin a clinical trial? Does intermittent fasting work? And is pharma more trustworthy than the CDC?

Episode 130: A road map for Covid-19, the gold rush in health tech, & D.C.'s pandemic unrest Sep 24, 2020

Is superspreading an Olympic event? Will Covid-19 forever change health tech? And what are the limits of Anthony Fauci's patience?

Episode 129: Heidi Tworek on pandemic PR, plus the CDC's credibility crisis & a lightning round Sep 17, 2020

How should governments talk about Covid-19? Can the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention rebuild public trust? And when is a steak worth $21 billion?

Episode 128: AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine, coronavirus politics, & STAT’s Health Tech Summit Sep 10, 2020

Is AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine in jeopardy? Why can’t politicians and scientists in Washington get along? Did you miss STAT’s first-ever Health Tech Summit?

Episode 127: Eric Topol on Stephen Hahn, plus Covid-19 vaccine timelines, & the 2000th First Opinion Sep 03, 2020

Should the FDA commissioner resign? How fast can vaccine trials move? And what do Chelsea Clinton and Chuck Grassley have in common?

Episode 126: The FDA's chaotic week, Trump's effect on science, and Musk's big reveal Aug 27, 2020

Can the Food and Drug Administration survive Trump? Are drug reviewers in the deep state? And what can Elon Musk teach us about the nature of reality?

Episode 125: Shocking FDA rejections, a longevity science setback & Derek Lowe on Covid-19 vaccines Aug 20, 2020

Did the FDA suddenly get stringent about new drugs? Is longevity research over-hyped? And what can recovered patients teach us about Covid-19 vaccines?

Episode 124: Pharma's lobbying dollars, Alnylam's future, and diversity in Covid-19 studies Aug 13, 2020

Is pharma scared of Kamala Harris? Are there second acts in biotech? And why don't Covid-19 trials look more diverse?

Episode 123: Steven Salzberg's Twitter debate, a health tech mega-deal & Covid-19 vaccine prices Aug 06, 2020

Does the future of health tech look like Facebook? Can we cut corners with Covid-19 vaccines? And are journalists slowing down Operation Warp Speed?

Episode 122: Gary Washburn on the NBA bubble, plus a DIY coronavirus vaccine, & behind VC numbers Jul 30, 2020

How much should a Covid-19 vaccine cost? What can basketball teach us about pandemic safety? And just how lucrative is venture capital?

Episode 121: Kate Bingham on vaccine data, Meg Tirrell on covering Covid-19, & a DNA detective story Jul 23, 2020

How soon will we get a Covid-19 vaccine? Why is biotech moving airline stocks? And what can we learn from 1860s science?

Episode 120: Moderna's vaccine data, saving the U.S. pandemic response & systemic racism in medicine Jul 16, 2020

What do we want from a coronavirus vaccine? Can the U.S.’s Covid-19 response be saved? And how can the field of medicine address structural racism?

Episode 119: Trump's FDA pressure, a microcosm of the pandemic, and squabbling over a vaccine Jul 09, 2020

Who will stand up to the White House? How can hospitals protect workers from Covid-19? And what ever happened with Biogen?

Episode 118: Remdesivir’s controversial cost, early vaccine promise, and AI at the end of life Jul 02, 2020

What’s a fair price for remdesivir? How do we know whether vaccines work? And does AI have a place in end-of-life care?

Episode 117: Covid-19’s U.S. surge, GSK’s mystery whistleblower, and cancer care under coronavirus Jun 25, 2020

Is this a second wave or a rising tide? Who’s the real GlaxoSmithKline whistleblower? And what happens to cancer care in a pandemic?

Episode 116: Ezekiel Emanuel on vaccine politics & Tshaka Cunningham on diversifying genetic testing Jun 18, 2020

Can a vaccine be an October surprise? Are journal publishers running a racket? And why is genetics so white?

Episode 115: The Chan-Zuck uprising, a virtual BIO, and the struggle to treat Covid-19 Jun 11, 2020

Can a virtual conference feel real? Do scientists have a say in their benefactors' business? And what does it take to get remdesivir in the U.S.?

Episode 114: The killing of George Floyd, the drug industry's response, and what comes next Jun 04, 2020

The killing of George Floyd at the hands of a white Minneapolis police officer has brutally underlined the systemic racism that informs policing, housing, education, and health care in the U.S. This podcast covers the world of biotech, which, like every facet of our society, is affected by racism and inequality. So, first, we talk about how the drug industry has responded to Floyd’s killing and what that response means. Then, we're joined for a conversation with longtime biotech executive Tony Coles, who is also a founding member of the Black Economic Alliance, a group of business leaders who raise money for candidates and causes. We talk about why Floyd's killing sparked global action, the relative value of public statements, and what business leaders can do to combat racism.

Episode 113: Life after a coronavirus vaccine, virtual ASCO, and remembering Larry Kramer May 28, 2020

What happens after we get a coronavirus vaccine? Can virtual medical meetings replace the real thing? And wasn’t Amazon supposed to disrupt health care?

Episode 112: Moderna's scant coronavirus data and the plight of the day trader May 21, 2020

When is a press release worth $5 billion? Can biotech stocks replace sports? And how will we know if a coronavirus vaccine actually works?

Episode 111: Covid-19 in the White House, a Parkinson’s experiment & public health lessons from porn May 14, 2020

What can the adult film industry teach us about fighting coronavirus? Does the FDA approve Zoom backgrounds? And is it ethical to fund a study of yourself?

Episode 110: Pandemic projections, Gilead's pricing dilemma & fighting Covid-19 in New York May 07, 2020

What if the curve just stays flat? How much should a Covid-19 drug cost? And what's it like on the ground in the epicenter of the novel coronavirus?

Episode 109: Scott Gottlieb on Covid-19 treatments, reopening America, and going on TV every day Apr 30, 2020

Just how well does Gilead Sciences' Covid-19 drug work? Is politics getting in the way of public health? And who gets the eventual coronavirus vaccine first?

Episode 108: A vaccine official is ousted, how to use ventilators, & the fate of the JPM conference Apr 23, 2020

Why was the infectious disease community in denial about the unfolding pandemic? When can we expect a vaccine? And are ventilators being overused?

Episode 107: Covid-19 disrupts D.C., how not to be boring on Zoom, and the trial of Elizabeth Holmes Apr 16, 2020

What's the proper distance to stand from Sen. Mitch McConnell? How many PowerPoint charts is too many? And when will Theranos get its day in court?

Episode 106: Privacy in a pandemic, biopharma's big opportunity, and Shkreli's plea for a break Apr 09, 2020

Can the drug industry win over Americans? Will the pandemic put an end to privacy? And could Martin Shkreli save the world?

Episode 105: Pandemic exit strategies, how the outbreak affects patients, and Ken Burns takes on DNA Apr 02, 2020

When will things go back to normal? What if a pandemic strikes when you're already sick? And what does Ken Burns know about genomics?

Episode 104: Fauci's star turn, the latest on coronavirus, and an under-the-radar Alzheimer's drug Mar 26, 2020

When can we stop distancing? Does the "deep state" meet over Zoom? And could the amyloid hypothesis come through at last?

Episode 103: Trump's coronavirus pivot, life inside the ICU & drug development in a pandemic Mar 19, 2020

Why did the U.S. change its tune on coronavirus? What's it like to be an ICU nurse right now? And when are we getting a vaccine?

Episode 102: Voices from the coronavirus pandemic, in Italy, New York, and the high seas Mar 12, 2020

How long will this pandemic persist? Are U.S. hospitals going to be overwhelmed? And what’s it like to be quarantined on a cruise ship?

Episode 101: Pharma’s response to coronavirus, Google's appetite for health data, & biotech in China Mar 05, 2020

Does “The Art of the Deal” cover vaccines? Is patient privacy a relic of the past? And how big can biotech get in China?

Episode 100: Wall Street's coronavirus freakout, clinical trial difficulties, and a look back Feb 27, 2020

Is the market overreacting to the coronavirus? Why do so many clinical trials go unfilled? And how do you pronounce "Martin Shkreli"?

Episode 99: Genetic medicine w/ Ethan Weiss, drug industry infighting, & a microbiome review Feb 20, 2020

Can biopharma police itself? Who decides whether something's a disease or a difference? And will fecal matter ever become a drug?

Episode 98: Les Funtleyder on biotech investing; the Zolgensma lottery & billionaire philanthropy Feb 13, 2020

What's the right way to give drugs away? Is $3 billion even a lot of money? And when is biotech hype justified?

Episode 97: Fake outbreak news, treating coronavirus, and biotech's Mount Rushmore Feb 06, 2020

Is peer review underrated? Can biotech stop an outbreak? And would you mind giving us a call? We're coming up on the 100th episode of this podcast, and we're using the occasion to actualize our long-held dream of running a call-in show. Dial us at 617-517-6130 and leave a message with any question you'd like us to answer on the podcast, and you may just hear it on air in the coming weeks.

Episode 96: A chemist breaks bad, the latest on the coronavirus, and pharma’s slow Bern Jan 30, 2020

Is it wise to lie to the feds? Is pharma taking Sen. Bernie Sanders seriously? And what constitutes a "public health emergency of international concern?"

Episode 95: The latest on the China virus, Sarepta's ongoing FDA saga, and biotech at Davos Jan 23, 2020

Are we dealing with a SARS redux? Has the FDA lost its teeth? And what do billionaires talk to each other about?

Episode 94: EQRx's Alexis Borisy, Stephen Buck on his website for cancer patients, and a JPM recap Jan 16, 2020

Why weren't there any big deals announced this week? What does the word "equivalar" mean? And why is information about prognosis so hard to find?

Episode 93: Josiah Zayner on getting canceled, good news in cancer, an Ebola vaccine saga Jan 09, 2020

Does pharma deserve more credit? Will history forgive He Jiankui? And how does a laboratory eureka become a lifesaving vaccine?

Episode 92: The decade in breakthroughs, the year in bad CEOs, and the viruses that cure disease Dec 19, 2019

Which drug defined the decade? Who's the worst CEO in biopharma? And how does gene therapy actually work?

Episode 91: CAR-T's future, an alarming cancer trend & Chris Garabedian on Sarepta's FDA legacy Dec 12, 2019

Has CAR-T lost its luster? Why is colorectal cancer on the rise? And did the FDA forever change in 2016?

Episode 90: Biogen's big reveal, hot takes on Alzheimer's, & the science of one-eyed sheep Dec 05, 2019

How do you know if a "positive" study is positive? And how did one-eyed sheep lead to a drug for certain cancers?

Episode 89: Warren's awkward home front, a dwarfism drug, and the sound of STAT Summit Nov 22, 2019

Can Sen. Elizabeth Warren ever go home again? Is it ethical to make little people taller? And when will AI come up with a new drug?

Episode 88: Dr. David Sable on an alarming genetic test & Jorge Conde on the perils of bio-Twitter Nov 14, 2019

Do you trust Google with your health data? Is "Gattaca" an outdated reference? And what's it like to get dunked on?

Episode 87: Derek Lowe on China's new Alzheimer's drug, blockbuster fish oil, & STAT's birthday Nov 07, 2019

Why hope for China's new Alzheimer's drug turned into skepticism ? Is three a crowd in CAR-T? And what's a Bionomy?

Episode 86: Drugs that don't work, wearables in the desert, & excess 'innovation' Oct 31, 2019

When should a drug be pulled from shelves? How do you pronounce "HLTH?" And how does Ann Coulter decide what to tweet?

Episode 85: Every angle on Biogen's shocking Alzheimer's news Oct 24, 2019

What exactly is Biogen doing? When is a press release worth $12 billion? And what should patients make of whiplashing news? We're devoting this entire episode to Biogen's stunning announcement that aducanumab, its once-discarded treatment for Alzheimer's disease, is getting a second life.

Episode 84: CRISPR with Netflix filmmakers, Pharma's future in China & where VC dollars come from Oct 17, 2019

Should drug companies be free-speech advocates? Is your retirement dependent on CRISPR? And how useful is a glow-in-the-dark dog?

Episode 83: How biotech VC works w/ health care journalist Maggie Fox, Vioxx and synthetic biology Oct 10, 2019

STAT's Matthew Herper joins us to dig into the history of the infamous pain drug Vioxx and a new effort to bring it back as a rare disease treatment. Then, we discuss how the synthetic biology industry is growing up and getting corporate. Finally, health care journalist Maggie Fox dials in to explain her deep dive on venture capital in biotech.

Episode 82: Drug shortages with Dr. Ben Davies, congressional paralysis & biotech's foul mood Oct 03, 2019

Does impeachment have a pharma angle? Who's to blame for drug shortages? And why is Wall Street down on biotech?

Episode 81: Vaping upheaval, DNA test dynamics, & the future of genome editing Sep 26, 2019

What do we talk about when we talk about "vape"? Are there limits to business of DNA testing? And how hard is it to get yourself CRISPR'd? STAT's Megan Thielking joins the gang to break down a major week of news in the world of vaping and STAT's Sharon Begley relates the story of a desperate patient seeking off-the-books genome editing and its implications for the future of medical research.

Episode 80: Unicorn growth spurts, Amgen's future, & mice on Twitter Sep 19, 2019

Who puts horns on unicorns? How do graying drug companies find green ideas? And what would mice tweet?

Episode 79: Pelosi's drug pricing plan, Moderna's mRNA drug factories, and a DIY disease cure Sep 12, 2019

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s drug pricing plan is aggressive, but is it viable? Can Moderna turn cells into tiny drug-making factories? What’s it like to cure your own rare disease?

Episode 78: Pharma existentialism, mainstreaming cyborgs, & FDA palace intrigue Sep 05, 2019

What separates good drug companies from mediocre ones? Have biohackers sold out? And who's going to run the FDA?

Episode 77: Purdue, J&J, and a week of big opioid crisis news Aug 29, 2019

What does Dr. Richard Sackler sound like? When is $500 million a small amount of money? And what will come of the drug companies at the heart of the opioid crisis?

Episode 76: Sarepta keeps a secret, an online army mobilizes, & China embraces biotech Aug 22, 2019

How should you talk to friends about rejection? Can Facebook actually improve the lives of children? And how's biotech doing in China?

Episode 75: The serious side of spit kits, how BiTEs leave a mark, & Sarepta's sluggish study Aug 15, 2019

Is anything too weighty to be explained over the internet? Can a new spin on old technology outfox CAR-T? And does that controversial drug even work?

Episode 74: Novartis and the no good, very bad week Aug 08, 2019

Why did Novartis (NVS) keep its scandal to itself? Who knew what and when? And is there such thing as too much Peloton time?

Episode 73: Canadian pills, corporate jets, & racists with spit kits Aug 01, 2019

Will Canada run out of drugs? Should you ever read your partner's diary? And what does Pepe the Frog know about genomics?

Episode 72: Vertex's regime change, the return of Ebola, & the rise of digital health Jul 25, 2019

What makes an epidemic newsworthy? Can biotech succession succeed? And what's so novel about digital health?

Episode 71: Elon Musk's monkey cyborg, Gilead's shifting future, & an app for anxiety Jul 18, 2019

Can apps treat anxiety? Is Gilead Sciences back on track? And are we all just brains in a vat?

Episode 70: A whirlwind week in Washington, Sean Parker's mansion, & remembering a voice in biotech Jul 11, 2019

Is drug pricing too complex for the Trump administration? Would you recognize Tom Hanks at a party? And what does it mean when famous executives quit?

Episode 69: The future of AbbVieGan, the dogma of amyloid, & some questionable biotech marketing Jun 27, 2019

Can Botox make Big Pharma attractive? What qualifies as a "cabal"? And will the CRISPR patent fight outlive us all?

Episode 68: A controversial desire drug, courtroom genealogy, & the quest for longer life Jun 20, 2019

Is desire a matter of medicine? Can you convict on genealogy? And what do you get the alleged bride who has it all?

Episode 67: Biohacking meets bureaucracy, and the latest twist in CRISPR world Jun 13, 2019

Is biohacking a crime? Who came up with the latest CRISPR trick? And did Rage Against the Machine sell out?

Episode 66: The future of cancer treatment, blockbusters interrupted, & an infamous biotech party Jun 06, 2019

Who won ASCO? Is pharma sandbagging its blockbusters? And what do gladiators have to do with biotech?

Episode 65: A special episode from the halls of the ASCO meeting Jun 04, 2019

What can be done to improve HPV vaccination rates in the U.S.? How does the genetic signature of a tumor lead to an effective cancer drug? What’s it like being a doctor and a cancer patient?

Episode 64: Feuding professors, failing businesses, and journalism 101 May 30, 2019

Who's guilty of "clickbait"? Are spit tubes a bad business? And why are academics emulating Pusha T?

Episode 63: Your ASCO preview, genetic whiplash, and a journalist's experience with cancer May 23, 2019

What should you watch for at the year's biggest cancer conference? Why are people having 23andMe-induced identity crises? And what's it like to be at once a journalist and a cancer patient?

Episode 62: Drug pricing partisanship, tech's march into health care, and Tinder for clinical trials May 16, 2019

Has drug price reform already stalled? How far has tech come in medicine? And should there be an app for that?

Episode 61: Pharma felonies, cardiac CRISPR, and a strange day at the FDA May 09, 2019

Are law-breaking pharma executives the new mob bosses? Can genome editing preventing heart attacks? And can the FDA regulate drug prices?

Episode 60: Boardroom drama, whiskey-fueled science, & millionaires on mushrooms May 02, 2019

Is Biogen bracing for a fight? What does Jack Daniels have to do with immunotherapy? And will "micro-dosing" light the way to actual therapies?

Episode 59: When scientists get mad online, for-profit cancer care, & the perils of naming a startup Apr 25, 2019

Who gets to be "influential"? Should you be skeptical of for-profit hospitals? And should George Lucas fire his attorneys?

Episode 58: Democratizing CRISPR, drugging the undruggable, and reading pharma's fine print Apr 18, 2019

Who gets to "play God"? Can old technologies learn new tricks? And what does "drug price" even mean?

Episode 57: Trump’s drug pricing foot soldier, Gilead’s uncertain future, & transpacific angst Apr 11, 2019

How do you sell lefty ideas to righty politicians? What’s going on at Gilead Sciences? And why are biotech investors freaking out?

Episode 56: Cheaper insulin, the next Juul, and diagnosing disease with sound Apr 04, 2019

What if pharma just charged less for drugs? Can speaking three syllables reveal whether you're depressed? And why is Snoop Dogg selling erectile dysfunction pills on TV?

Episode 55: The fate of Bristol-Myers-Celgene, the tragedy of SIDS, and health tech's challenges Mar 28, 2019

Why can't investors think for themselves? How do parents cope with inexplicable tragedy? And is tech prepared for the toughest parts of health care?

Episode 54: Another big Alzheimer’s failure, postpartum progress, and Long Island shores Mar 21, 2019

Should Alzheimer's researchers just give up on amyloid plaques? What will a new drug mean for new moms with postpartum depression? And which coastal region of Long Island is superior?

Episode 53: How startups stop, the new FDA boss, and Theranos on the big screen Mar 14, 2019

Who deserves credit for a new gene therapy? How do you push stop on a startup? And what does MC Hammer have to do with Theranos?

Episode 52: Every conceivable angle of Scott Gottlieb's FDA resignation Mar 07, 2019

Why is Scott Gottlieb quitting the FDA? Who will replace him? And what's the proper elastane content of a skinny jean?

Episode 51: CEOs at the Senate, merger mania, and sleuthing startups Feb 28, 2019

Is this the age of the big biotech buyout? Is cold brew a business expense? And how do you pronounce "Gonzalez"?

Episode 50: A big scoop on opioid marketing Feb 22, 2019

What did an opioid patriarch say under oath? Why did everyone want to know so badly? And how might it shape the conversation around the opioid crisis?

Episode 49: Painkiller racketeering, the limits of genetic tests, and pharma's day on the Hill Feb 21, 2019

Is pharma about to have its Big Tobacco moment? Are we overestimating human genetics? And can sales reps rap? We discuss all that and more on the latest episode of “The Readout LOUD,” STAT’s biotech podcast. First, Boston Globe reporter Jonathan Saltzman joins us to discuss the case against Insys Therapeutics, the maker of a powerful painkiller now accused of running a nationwide racketeering scheme. Then Dr. Laura Esserman of the University of California, San Francisco, comes on to break down the debate over genetic testing for cancer risk. And then we give you the need-to-know on an upcoming Senate hearing that will see seven pharma executives get grilled on the rising cost of medicines in the U.S.

Episode 48: The AI hype machine, ketamine's future, and the rocky path ahead for NASH Feb 14, 2019

When will AI replace your radiologist? What can pharma learn from ketamine? And is liver disease more complicated than anyone thought?

Episode 47: A bad day for bold biotech, campaign 2020, and where do drugs come from? Feb 07, 2019

Are we underestimating biology? Will Hot 97 decide the presidency? And who owns the scientific means of production?

Episode 46: Another Alzheimer's setback, crypto for biotech, and a blessing of unicorns Jan 31, 2019

Is the drug industry wrong about Alzheimer's disease? Can cryptocurrency fund actual science? And should you feel sorry for Big Pharma?

Episode 45: CRISPR upheaval, Celgene's chutzpah, and canine genomics Jan 24, 2019

Is genome editing harder than anyone thought? Will no one weep for Celgene? And is it time to sequence your dog?

Episode 44: FDA furloughs, '80s pop radio, and video game therapeutics Jan 17, 2019

Is the FDA going broke? Can video games be drugs? And when did "Flashdance" come out?

Episode 43: A people's history of J.P. Morgan Jan 10, 2019

Do drug developers tip well? Is biotech safe for 6-year-olds? And what's a Cable Car Cosmo?

Episode 42: Parsing Bristol-Myers-Celgene, grousing about JPM, and how to not be boring Jan 03, 2019

Are megamergers bad for business? Is it time for biotech's biggest gathering to find a new home? And can a "need" be anything but "unmet"?

Episode 41: Watson's latest stumble, a glimpse into the crystal ball, and revisiting Sarepta Dec 20, 2018

What will become of biotech in 2019? What's the legacy of Sarepta Therapeutics? And how do you say "overhyped" in Mandarin?

Episode 40: Gilead’s new boss, the year that was, and the thing about DNA tests Dec 13, 2018

Is Gilead Sciences entering a bold new era? What even happened in 2018? And how useful is a genetic credit score?

Episode 39: Using the word 'cure,' an FDA loophole, & making biotech history Dec 06, 2018

Can gene therapy cure sickle cell disease? Is an expensive drug better than a free one? And will biotech see its shadow in 2019?

Episode 38: Your guide to the #CRISPRbabies controversy Nov 29, 2018

What does it mean to edit a person? Has science run afoul of basic ethics? And what's the time difference to Hong Kong?

Episode 37: The biggest-ever IPO, drug prices rising in tandem, and burner Twitter accounts Nov 15, 2018

Can unicorns float? Is a hot dog a sandwich? And how are drug companies like gas stations?

Episode 36: What the midterms mean, a golden age on hold, and the $4 million drug Nov 08, 2018

Is pharma in for a swarm of subpoenas? Are we running out of ideas in oncology? And can a drug possibly be worth $4 million a dose?

Episode 35: Biotech's October slump, the precise cost of precision, and breaking postpartum silence Nov 01, 2018

Why are biotech stocks in the dumps? Is the latest in cancer care overhyped? And what does "folie à deux" mean?

Episode 34: Pharma at the ballot box, the latest Alzheimer's argument, and a rare disease dilemma Oct 25, 2018

Can pharma-shaming get someone re-elected? How rare is too rare when it comes to biotech research? And what does "positive" even mean, really?

Episode 33: Drug prices on TV, immortal blockbusters, and genetic privacy Oct 18, 2018

Are prescription drugs like new cars? Is pharma's grand bargain a sham? And who keeps your DNA safe?

Episode 32: Fake friends at the FDA, cancer counter-narratives, and biotech's bear turn Oct 11, 2018

Is the next big idea in oncology a bust? What does "successful" mean exactly? And why does Wall Street hate biotech all of a sudden?

Episode 31: Nobel snubs, millenial founders, and a new kind of lightning round Oct 04, 2018

Did the Nobel Prizes go to the right scientists? Why is there so much disdain for biotech's millenial entrepreneurs? And do journalists have a good taste in '80s music?

Episode 30: A fish oil epiphany, VC monopolies and ketamine clinics Sep 27, 2018

Was everyone wrong about fish oil? Is venture capital a cartel? And what's with all those ketamine clinics?

Episode 29: A Hong Kong heat-check, a $20 million wrist slap, and pharma's (other) diversity problem Sep 20, 2018

Is a biotech bubble inflating in China? Do the feds coddle CEOs? And why don't clinical trials look like America?

Episode 28: Founders' funds, doctors' disclosures, and the subtle art of beeping Sep 13, 2018

Is biotech too founder-friendly? Is honesty overrated? And how do you tell a good beep from a bad one?

Episode 27: Live from Boston! Sep 06, 2018

Should genome editors be worried? Has 2018 been a bummer? And are voters ready to love Big Pharma? We discuss this and more on a special live episode from the BioPharm America conference in Boston.

Episode 26: FDA shows its teeth, biotech fish oil might be pointless, & treating McCain's cancer Aug 30, 2018

Is the FDA as lenient as everyone thinks? Can fish oil be a multibillion-dollar drug? And why aren't there better treatments for brain cancer?

Episode 25: A genome-editing first, Trump on Wall Street, and biotech red flags Aug 23, 2018

Can genome-editing work in actual people? Are CEOs oversharing? And how do you sniff out a bad bet before it happens?

Episode 24: A lesson in startup jargon, pharma's bare Alzheimer's cupboard, and the cost of CAR-T Aug 16, 2018

How much is a shot at curing cancer worth? Where are all the drugs for late-stage Alzheimer's disease? And what on Earth is an "oversubscribed Series A round"?

Episode 23: Congressional insider trading, PETA and fake meat, & doctors vs. fund managers Aug 09, 2018

Can insider trading charges derail political campaigns? Should you trust a fund manager over a doctor? And how many rats would you trade for a cow?

Episode 22: Biotech's battle for talent, Sanofi's second act, and climbing Mt. Everest Aug 02, 2018

What juicy perks do biotech startups offer to lure increasingly hard-to-find talent? How does Sanofi plan to make up for lost time in the lucrative field of oncology? And veteran biotech journalist Luke Timmerman talks about what it's like to climb Mt. Everest.

Episode 21 - A debatable Alzheimer's breakthrough, Gilead's golden age, and "robust" data Jul 26, 2018

What qualifies as "robust" when it comes to data? Is digital health a bubble? And can Gilead Sciences survive without men named John?

Episode 20 - CRISPR freakouts, drug prices meet elections, and a busy earnings season Jul 19, 2018

Can drug prices swing an election? Is every quarter a “great quarter“? And why is everyone freaking out about CRISPR? Listen, and all will be explained.

Episode 19: Trump's telephonic prowess, Biogen's mysterious future, & the rise of 'hypelines' Jul 12, 2018

Can phone calls bring down drug prices? Do mom-and-pop investors have a prayer against hedge funds? And how do you know whether an Alzheimer's drug actually works?

Episode 18: Biotech's six-month review, how to become a day trader and soul-searching analysts Jul 05, 2018

Adam and Damian recap the past six months in biotech. Investor and philanthropist, Sheff Station, stops by and gives tips on how to become a day trader, and analysts questioning their very existence.

Episode 17: A friendly FDA, biosimilar awkwardness and how to sell drugs in China Jun 28, 2018

How did the FDA become so friendly to the drug industry? The thorny issue of using 23andMe to unite families separated at the border, and Rebecca explains how drugs are priced in China.

Episode 16: Sarepta's big week, Theranos' legal woes and parsing AI hype Jun 21, 2018

Is Sarepta Therapeutics worth $10 billion? Will Theranos' Elizabeth Holmes go behind bars? And how does AI fit into biotech?

Episode 15: Problematic parties, Nitpicking NASH, and an opioid documentary from STAT Jun 14, 2018

The problem with the topless dancers at PABNAB. Are investors overestimating the market for fatty liver drugs? And how many lives do biotech entrepreneurs get?

Episode 14: Twitter vitriol, biotech jargon, and the plight of the CEO Jun 07, 2018

Why is Twitter so mean to Axovant? Adam teaches a crash course on biostatistics. And will sci-fi gene and cell therapies ever go mainstream.

Episode 13: Spending millions on fatty liver disease. Overhyped cancer drugs. Who goes to BIO? May 31, 2018

Is the drug industry spending millions on a made-up disease? Have the latest cancer drugs been overhyped? And why does anyone go to BIO?

Episode 12: Ebola should worry you, again; 23andMe's World Cup whoops; Don't drink sunscreen May 24, 2018

How worried should you be about Ebola? Can the government lower drug prices without hurting the drug industry? And is socceromics a thing? Listen this week to find out.

Episode 11: Inside the Theranos collapse, Valeant's latest legal lumps, and a few biotech hot takes May 17, 2018

What do you call a unicorn without a horn? Is your colleague wearing a wire? And is Jentadueto a drug name or a complicated espresso drink?

Episode #10: Cohen, Trump, Novartis, oh my; Spark + Amish; Genetic testing at your doc's office? May 10, 2018

On today's show, we dig into the no good, very bad day Novartis had when the world got wind of its ties to President Trump's personal attorney, a discussion of how the world's biggest cancer conference used to be the Wild West for investors, and an exploration of one health system's plan to bring genomics to the masses. Also STAT's Eric Boodman joins us to talk about how a pricey new gene therapy has created a fascinating situation in Amish country.

Episode #9 - Bill Gates on deadly flu, Chinese biotech bubbles, Golden State killer genetics May 03, 2018

We talk to Bill Gates about the flu that could kill millions. Is China too enamored with biotech startups? And how do you find a cold case killer? Genetics.

Episode #8 - Megamergers, migraines, and biotech's Four Horsemen Apr 26, 2018

What's a good use of $64 billion? Is Big Biotech boring now? And what's the best way to sell hair restoration products to men?

Episode #7 - Coke and Pepsi of lung cancer, a debatable drug price, and a cure for capitalism Apr 19, 2018

Is Bristol-Myers Squibb into self-sabotage? Is Congress coming for Gut Guy? And why does Goldman Sachs love money so much?

Episode #6 - Biotech buyouts, CEO breakups, and The Rock does CRISPR Apr 12, 2018

Why are biotech investors suddenly so exuberant? What does it mean when a CEO scrubs his LinkedIn profile? And can CRISPR turn your dog into a winged hellhound bent on destroying Chicago?

Episode #5 - The FDA's cold shoulder, the latest CAR-T contender, and BuzzFeed's scoop on Grindr Apr 05, 2018

What's it like to be a biotech investor? Do you know where your genetic data are? And what does it mean when the FDA swipes left on your drug?

Episode #4 - Mr. Drug CEO doesn't go to DC, billionaires fighting drug prices, a biotech report card Mar 29, 2018

Why aren't pharma CEOs getting hauled into Congress? Which biotech companies got a failing grade this quarter? And why is there no Kelley Blue Book for the price tag of a medicine?

Episode #3 - A gene therapy story, breaking down Incyte’s future, and was Gottlieb wrong to try? Mar 22, 2018

What’s it like to watch gene therapy happen? Is the next big cancer clinical trial going to work? And is “right to try” going to defang the FDA?

Episode #2 - Theranos’s fate, biotech’s awkward SXSW, and a word on cow loogies Mar 15, 2018

Did Elizabeth Holmes get off easy? Why does biotech bother with SXSW? And what does shoving a tube into a dead cow’s throat have to do with biotech?

Episode #1 - Shkreli's sentence, biotech froth, and a blood party Mar 08, 2018

How long is Martin Shkreli going to be in prison? Is the biotech bubble about to burst? And what's it like to attend a blood-swapping gala? Listen to our first episode of, "The Readout LOUD."

Coming soon: "The Readout LOUD" Mar 02, 2018

An introduction to a new weekly biotech podcast from STAT.

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