Leap Together Podcast Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/leap-together This is the Leap Together Podcast, where we highlight top leaders driving breakthroughs in clinical research and life sciences. © 2026 Leapcure Inc. b4ac0544-ccf9-56d4-a2b7-0c67829aa95d yes Zach Gobst Leap Together Podcast Trailer en Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:14:09 -0700 Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:15:45 -0700 http://leapcure.com https://img.transistorcdn.com/V58DckStDL7AFfcu4cCN9WIMeFOunBp6lnMP4N1pqzw/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8xMDRj/MGJlNWMyOGZkZTY2/ZTRlNmJmMTA5MWY1/NWVmNS5qcGc.jpg Leap Together Podcast http://leapcure.com episodic Leapcure Inc. This is the Leap Together Podcast, where we highlight top leaders driving breakthroughs in clinical research and life sciences. This is the Leap Together Podcast, where we highlight top leaders driving breakthroughs in clinical research and life sciences.. Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech Leapcure Inc. No No Dr. John Mandeville - Oculoplastic Surgeon and Principal Investigator 17 17 Dr. John Mandeville - Oculoplastic Surgeon and Principal Investigator full 54c5b14f-c526-4298-b569-66281e209147 https://share.transistor.fm/s/897b20b9 What does it actually take for a high-performing clinical practice to step into research for the first time? In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. John Mandeville, a leading oculoplastic surgeon at Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston, to trace his unexpected path from bench science and surgical practice back to clinical research and what he's learned in his first year running studies.

Dr. Mandeville shares how a career spent treating Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) led him to seek out new treatment options when surgical approaches alone weren't enough, and how that curiosity brought him from enrolling a single patient to running eight or nine clinical trials in just twelve months. He reflects honestly on the steep regulatory learning curve, the importance of building the right team, the challenge of managing patient expectations and motivations, and what it really costs, financially and personally, to build a research program inside a busy private practice.

His perspective on patient recruitment is especially candid: from understanding why some patients are eager to enroll, to knowing when to talk someone out of a trial entirely, Dr. Mandeville brings a grounded, empathetic lens to what is often treated as a purely logistical problem.

]]> What does it actually take for a high-performing clinical practice to step into research for the first time? In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. John Mandeville, a leading oculoplastic surgeon at Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston, to trace his unexpected path from bench science and surgical practice back to clinical research and what he's learned in his first year running studies.

Dr. Mandeville shares how a career spent treating Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) led him to seek out new treatment options when surgical approaches alone weren't enough, and how that curiosity brought him from enrolling a single patient to running eight or nine clinical trials in just twelve months. He reflects honestly on the steep regulatory learning curve, the importance of building the right team, the challenge of managing patient expectations and motivations, and what it really costs, financially and personally, to build a research program inside a busy private practice.

His perspective on patient recruitment is especially candid: from understanding why some patients are eager to enroll, to knowing when to talk someone out of a trial entirely, Dr. Mandeville brings a grounded, empathetic lens to what is often treated as a purely logistical problem.

]]> Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:14:00 -0700 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 2243 What does it actually take for a high-performing clinical practice to step into research for the first time? In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. John Mandeville, a leading oculoplastic surgeon at Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston, to trace his unexpected path from bench science and surgical practice back to clinical research and what he's learned in his first year running studies.

Dr. Mandeville shares how a career spent treating Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) led him to seek out new treatment options when surgical approaches alone weren't enough, and how that curiosity brought him from enrolling a single patient to running eight or nine clinical trials in just twelve months. He reflects honestly on the steep regulatory learning curve, the importance of building the right team, the challenge of managing patient expectations and motivations, and what it really costs, financially and personally, to build a research program inside a busy private practice.

His perspective on patient recruitment is especially candid: from understanding why some patients are eager to enroll, to knowing when to talk someone out of a trial entirely, Dr. Mandeville brings a grounded, empathetic lens to what is often treated as a purely logistical problem.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Zach Gobst Dr. John Mandeville Dr. Kristiyana Kaneva - Senior Medical Director of Oncology Early Development at AbbVie 16 16 Dr. Kristiyana Kaneva - Senior Medical Director of Oncology Early Development at AbbVie full f12471b9-d687-4fc6-b230-05497147c435 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a98c1607 What happens when a pediatric oncologist who has sat at the bedside of children with cancer decides the best way to help more patients is to leave the clinic entirely? In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. Kristiyana Kaneva, a board-certified pediatric hematologist, oncologist, and neuro-oncologist, now Senior Medical Director of Oncology Early Development at AbbVie, to explore what it really takes to bridge the gap between the bench and the patient.

Dr. Kaneva reflects on her training at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, the weight of caring for critically ill children, and the early mentor who first introduced her to the world of precision medicine and pediatric brain tumors. She shares how that spark led her to Tempus AI, where she led an end-to-end team to bring a minimal residual disease (MRD) test for colorectal cancer from concept to commercial launch and what it felt like to see that test making a real difference in the clinic.


Now at AbbVie, Dr. Kaneva discusses the work of oncology early clinical development: shepherding novel molecules through IND submissions and first-in-human Phase 1 trials. She makes the case for why pediatric patients can't be an afterthought in drug development, how FDA regulatory guidance is beginning to close that gap, and why the next generation of in vivo CAR T therapies could transform access for patients around the world.

In this episode, we cover:

  • What drew Dr. Kaneva to pediatric oncology as a college student and why she never changed course
  • The emotional realities of training at one of the country's busiest pediatric cancer centers
  • How precision medicine and a pioneering mentor at CHLA redirected her career toward diagnostics and industry
  • Leading the development and commercial launch of an MRD test for colorectal cancer at Tempus AI
  • What oncology early clinical development looks like at AbbVie from IND applications to first-in-human trials
  • Why pediatric drug development has historically lagged and how the field is slowly catching up
  • The promise of off-the-shelf in vivo CAR T therapies and what they could mean for global patient access

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> What happens when a pediatric oncologist who has sat at the bedside of children with cancer decides the best way to help more patients is to leave the clinic entirely? In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. Kristiyana Kaneva, a board-certified pediatric hematologist, oncologist, and neuro-oncologist, now Senior Medical Director of Oncology Early Development at AbbVie, to explore what it really takes to bridge the gap between the bench and the patient.

Dr. Kaneva reflects on her training at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, the weight of caring for critically ill children, and the early mentor who first introduced her to the world of precision medicine and pediatric brain tumors. She shares how that spark led her to Tempus AI, where she led an end-to-end team to bring a minimal residual disease (MRD) test for colorectal cancer from concept to commercial launch and what it felt like to see that test making a real difference in the clinic.


Now at AbbVie, Dr. Kaneva discusses the work of oncology early clinical development: shepherding novel molecules through IND submissions and first-in-human Phase 1 trials. She makes the case for why pediatric patients can't be an afterthought in drug development, how FDA regulatory guidance is beginning to close that gap, and why the next generation of in vivo CAR T therapies could transform access for patients around the world.

In this episode, we cover:

  • What drew Dr. Kaneva to pediatric oncology as a college student and why she never changed course
  • The emotional realities of training at one of the country's busiest pediatric cancer centers
  • How precision medicine and a pioneering mentor at CHLA redirected her career toward diagnostics and industry
  • Leading the development and commercial launch of an MRD test for colorectal cancer at Tempus AI
  • What oncology early clinical development looks like at AbbVie from IND applications to first-in-human trials
  • Why pediatric drug development has historically lagged and how the field is slowly catching up
  • The promise of off-the-shelf in vivo CAR T therapies and what they could mean for global patient access

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2026 01:14:00 -0700 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 2014 What happens when a pediatric oncologist who has sat at the bedside of children with cancer decides the best way to help more patients is to leave the clinic entirely? In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. Kristiyana Kaneva, a board-certified pediatric hematologist, oncologist, and neuro-oncologist, now Senior Medical Director of Oncology Early Development at AbbVie, to explore what it really takes to bridge the gap between the bench and the patient.

Dr. Kaneva reflects on her training at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, the weight of caring for critically ill children, and the early mentor who first introduced her to the world of precision medicine and pediatric brain tumors. She shares how that spark led her to Tempus AI, where she led an end-to-end team to bring a minimal residual disease (MRD) test for colorectal cancer from concept to commercial launch and what it felt like to see that test making a real difference in the clinic.


Now at AbbVie, Dr. Kaneva discusses the work of oncology early clinical development: shepherding novel molecules through IND submissions and first-in-human Phase 1 trials. She makes the case for why pediatric patients can't be an afterthought in drug development, how FDA regulatory guidance is beginning to close that gap, and why the next generation of in vivo CAR T therapies could transform access for patients around the world.

In this episode, we cover:

  • What drew Dr. Kaneva to pediatric oncology as a college student and why she never changed course
  • The emotional realities of training at one of the country's busiest pediatric cancer centers
  • How precision medicine and a pioneering mentor at CHLA redirected her career toward diagnostics and industry
  • Leading the development and commercial launch of an MRD test for colorectal cancer at Tempus AI
  • What oncology early clinical development looks like at AbbVie from IND applications to first-in-human trials
  • Why pediatric drug development has historically lagged and how the field is slowly catching up
  • The promise of off-the-shelf in vivo CAR T therapies and what they could mean for global patient access

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> Clinical Trials, Oncology, Pediatric Oncology, Drug Development, Precision Medicine, Leap Together, Leapcure, Clinical Trial Innovation, Patient Engagement, No Zach Gobst Dr. Kristiyana Kaneva Dini Rao - Co-founder of Colors of Hope and PWS Advocate 15 15 Dini Rao - Co-founder of Colors of Hope and PWS Advocate full af7c357e-e719-4e42-b38d-b215860de40e https://share.transistor.fm/s/c7ed294b Why do so many rare disease families, especially families of color, still feel unseen in research, and what would it take to build clinical trials that truly meet them where they are? In this episode, Laura Brencher, Leapcure’s VP of Advocacy, sits down with Dini Rao, co-founder of Colors of Hope and a Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) advocate, to explore what equitable research looks like when day-to-day caregiving is already a full-time job.


Dini shares how Colors of Hope was born from a simple but powerful goal; helping families feel less alone. Dini discusses how that community lens translates directly into better research participation: clearer education, trusted messengers, and study experiences designed around real constraints. Dini points to evidence that physician workforce diversity can have measurable health impacts, specifically, findings related to racial gaps in cardiovascular mortality (ref 1). Together, Laura and Dini unpack why representation isn’t just a “nice to have,” how sponsors and sites can reduce friction without sacrificing quality, and why listening to caregivers is essential to ethical, patient-centered progress in rare disease research.

In this episode, we cover:

  • How community-building can remove barriers to research participation and reduce isolation for families
  • What “patient-centered” means when caregivers are balancing complex, round-the-clock needs
  • Why diversity in rare disease research requires trust, cultural humility, and sustained outreach
  • Practical ways to make trials more accessible (communication, logistics, support) while protecting quality


To learn more about Colors of Hope, check out https://www.pwscolorsofhope.org/

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

Reference:

  1. Alsan, Marcella; Garrick, Owen; Graziani, Grant. “Does Diversity Matter for Health? Experimental Evidence from Oakland.” American Economic Review, 109(12), Dec 2019. https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/aer.20181446


]]> Why do so many rare disease families, especially families of color, still feel unseen in research, and what would it take to build clinical trials that truly meet them where they are? In this episode, Laura Brencher, Leapcure’s VP of Advocacy, sits down with Dini Rao, co-founder of Colors of Hope and a Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) advocate, to explore what equitable research looks like when day-to-day caregiving is already a full-time job.


Dini shares how Colors of Hope was born from a simple but powerful goal; helping families feel less alone. Dini discusses how that community lens translates directly into better research participation: clearer education, trusted messengers, and study experiences designed around real constraints. Dini points to evidence that physician workforce diversity can have measurable health impacts, specifically, findings related to racial gaps in cardiovascular mortality (ref 1). Together, Laura and Dini unpack why representation isn’t just a “nice to have,” how sponsors and sites can reduce friction without sacrificing quality, and why listening to caregivers is essential to ethical, patient-centered progress in rare disease research.

In this episode, we cover:

  • How community-building can remove barriers to research participation and reduce isolation for families
  • What “patient-centered” means when caregivers are balancing complex, round-the-clock needs
  • Why diversity in rare disease research requires trust, cultural humility, and sustained outreach
  • Practical ways to make trials more accessible (communication, logistics, support) while protecting quality


To learn more about Colors of Hope, check out https://www.pwscolorsofhope.org/

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

Reference:

  1. Alsan, Marcella; Garrick, Owen; Graziani, Grant. “Does Diversity Matter for Health? Experimental Evidence from Oakland.” American Economic Review, 109(12), Dec 2019. https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/aer.20181446


]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2026 01:14:00 -0800 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 1394 Why do so many rare disease families, especially families of color, still feel unseen in research, and what would it take to build clinical trials that truly meet them where they are? In this episode, Laura Brencher, Leapcure’s VP of Advocacy, sits down with Dini Rao, co-founder of Colors of Hope and a Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) advocate, to explore what equitable research looks like when day-to-day caregiving is already a full-time job.


Dini shares how Colors of Hope was born from a simple but powerful goal; helping families feel less alone. Dini discusses how that community lens translates directly into better research participation: clearer education, trusted messengers, and study experiences designed around real constraints. Dini points to evidence that physician workforce diversity can have measurable health impacts, specifically, findings related to racial gaps in cardiovascular mortality (ref 1). Together, Laura and Dini unpack why representation isn’t just a “nice to have,” how sponsors and sites can reduce friction without sacrificing quality, and why listening to caregivers is essential to ethical, patient-centered progress in rare disease research.

In this episode, we cover:

  • How community-building can remove barriers to research participation and reduce isolation for families
  • What “patient-centered” means when caregivers are balancing complex, round-the-clock needs
  • Why diversity in rare disease research requires trust, cultural humility, and sustained outreach
  • Practical ways to make trials more accessible (communication, logistics, support) while protecting quality


To learn more about Colors of Hope, check out https://www.pwscolorsofhope.org/

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

Reference:

  1. Alsan, Marcella; Garrick, Owen; Graziani, Grant. “Does Diversity Matter for Health? Experimental Evidence from Oakland.” American Economic Review, 109(12), Dec 2019. https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/aer.20181446


]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Advocacy, Equitable Trials, Prader-Willi Syndrome, PWS, Patient-Centricity, Trial Diversity, Rare Disease, Community Engagement No Laura Brencher Dini Rao Dr. Aaron Milstone - Pulmonologist and Principal Investigator 14 14 Dr. Aaron Milstone - Pulmonologist and Principal Investigator full b862bd7f-214f-413b-a8c1-b00151aab594 https://share.transistor.fm/s/392ac721 Pulmonary fibrosis trials are advancing quickly, but many studies still struggle to enroll and complete on time. In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. Aaron Milstone, a pulmonologist and principal investigator, to talk about what enrollment really looks like from the site side and what it takes to support patients through participation with dignity, clarity, and trust.

Dr. Milstone shares how pulmonary research has become increasingly competitive, why thoughtful pre-screening against inclusion/exclusion criteria protects both patients and study quality, and how practical logistics for patients, like travel and lodging support, can be the difference between someone being able to participate or not. The conversation highlights what happens when recruitment is treated as a partnership with sites and patients, not just a pipeline.


In this episode, we cover:

  • Why pulmonary fibrosis trials are especially competitive for enrollment and what that means for sites and sponsors
  • The role of careful pre-screening to ensure the right patients are approached for the right studies
  • How travel and lodging support can reduce participation barriers without compromising trial rigor
  • What builds (and erodes) trust for patients considering research participation
  • Why enrollment success is essential to completing studies and generating evidence patients can rely on

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> Pulmonary fibrosis trials are advancing quickly, but many studies still struggle to enroll and complete on time. In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. Aaron Milstone, a pulmonologist and principal investigator, to talk about what enrollment really looks like from the site side and what it takes to support patients through participation with dignity, clarity, and trust.

Dr. Milstone shares how pulmonary research has become increasingly competitive, why thoughtful pre-screening against inclusion/exclusion criteria protects both patients and study quality, and how practical logistics for patients, like travel and lodging support, can be the difference between someone being able to participate or not. The conversation highlights what happens when recruitment is treated as a partnership with sites and patients, not just a pipeline.


In this episode, we cover:

  • Why pulmonary fibrosis trials are especially competitive for enrollment and what that means for sites and sponsors
  • The role of careful pre-screening to ensure the right patients are approached for the right studies
  • How travel and lodging support can reduce participation barriers without compromising trial rigor
  • What builds (and erodes) trust for patients considering research participation
  • Why enrollment success is essential to completing studies and generating evidence patients can rely on

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 03:14:00 -0800 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 2125 Pulmonary fibrosis trials are advancing quickly, but many studies still struggle to enroll and complete on time. In this episode, Zach Gobst sits down with Dr. Aaron Milstone, a pulmonologist and principal investigator, to talk about what enrollment really looks like from the site side and what it takes to support patients through participation with dignity, clarity, and trust.

Dr. Milstone shares how pulmonary research has become increasingly competitive, why thoughtful pre-screening against inclusion/exclusion criteria protects both patients and study quality, and how practical logistics for patients, like travel and lodging support, can be the difference between someone being able to participate or not. The conversation highlights what happens when recruitment is treated as a partnership with sites and patients, not just a pipeline.


In this episode, we cover:

  • Why pulmonary fibrosis trials are especially competitive for enrollment and what that means for sites and sponsors
  • The role of careful pre-screening to ensure the right patients are approached for the right studies
  • How travel and lodging support can reduce participation barriers without compromising trial rigor
  • What builds (and erodes) trust for patients considering research participation
  • Why enrollment success is essential to completing studies and generating evidence patients can rely on

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Dr. Aaron Milstone Zach Gobst Marie Teil - Global Head of Special Patient Populations at UCB 13 13 Marie Teil - Global Head of Special Patient Populations at UCB full 23a976e8-f620-434b-8c8a-37f6e63f7d22 https://share.transistor.fm/s/76eedb72 Why are pregnant and breastfeeding women still so often excluded from clinical research, and what does that mean for real-world decision-making? In this episode, Laura Brencher, Leapcure's VP of Advocacy, sits down with Marie Teil, UCB's Global Head of Special Patient Populations, to unpack the long-standing evidence gap for women of childbearing age and what it takes to close it responsibly.

Marie shares why inclusion has to be intentional from the start, how earlier data generation supports more informed conversations between patients and clinicians, and what “ethical” truly looks like when patients are left without evidence. The conversation touches on growing global momentum, including evolving ICH guidance aimed at supporting the inclusion of pregnant and breastfeeding individuals in clinical trials and what leaders across the ecosystem can do today to move the field forward.

In this episode, we cover:

  • Why excluding pregnant/breastfeeding populations creates real-world risk and uncertainty
  • Designing inclusive studies as a default, not an afterthought
  • Building trust-driven, evidence-based approaches that support patients and physicians
  • Progress in the field and why upcoming global guidelines matter
  • A principle to carry forward: protect women through research, not from research

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> Why are pregnant and breastfeeding women still so often excluded from clinical research, and what does that mean for real-world decision-making? In this episode, Laura Brencher, Leapcure's VP of Advocacy, sits down with Marie Teil, UCB's Global Head of Special Patient Populations, to unpack the long-standing evidence gap for women of childbearing age and what it takes to close it responsibly.

Marie shares why inclusion has to be intentional from the start, how earlier data generation supports more informed conversations between patients and clinicians, and what “ethical” truly looks like when patients are left without evidence. The conversation touches on growing global momentum, including evolving ICH guidance aimed at supporting the inclusion of pregnant and breastfeeding individuals in clinical trials and what leaders across the ecosystem can do today to move the field forward.

In this episode, we cover:

  • Why excluding pregnant/breastfeeding populations creates real-world risk and uncertainty
  • Designing inclusive studies as a default, not an afterthought
  • Building trust-driven, evidence-based approaches that support patients and physicians
  • Progress in the field and why upcoming global guidelines matter
  • A principle to carry forward: protect women through research, not from research

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:14:00 -0800 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 1659 Why are pregnant and breastfeeding women still so often excluded from clinical research, and what does that mean for real-world decision-making? In this episode, Laura Brencher, Leapcure's VP of Advocacy, sits down with Marie Teil, UCB's Global Head of Special Patient Populations, to unpack the long-standing evidence gap for women of childbearing age and what it takes to close it responsibly.

Marie shares why inclusion has to be intentional from the start, how earlier data generation supports more informed conversations between patients and clinicians, and what “ethical” truly looks like when patients are left without evidence. The conversation touches on growing global momentum, including evolving ICH guidance aimed at supporting the inclusion of pregnant and breastfeeding individuals in clinical trials and what leaders across the ecosystem can do today to move the field forward.

In this episode, we cover:

  • Why excluding pregnant/breastfeeding populations creates real-world risk and uncertainty
  • Designing inclusive studies as a default, not an afterthought
  • Building trust-driven, evidence-based approaches that support patients and physicians
  • Progress in the field and why upcoming global guidelines matter
  • A principle to carry forward: protect women through research, not from research

Subscribe for more conversations on clinical research innovation that keeps patient needs at the center.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Marie Teil Laura Brencher Robin Schmidt - Clinical Operations Expert 12 12 Robin Schmidt - Clinical Operations Expert full cab3a412-d8b4-455a-ba34-1fe80ae85b02 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a9c8b887 In this episode of Leap Together, Zach sits down with Robin Schmidt, a clinical operations expert, to unpack the behind-the-scenes work that makes clinical research move. With over 30 years of experience across pharma and biotech, Robin shares her journey into clinical trials, the “village” it takes to execute studies well, and why culture and respectful partnerships are often the difference between a smooth trial and a painful one.


Robin also offers a clear walkthrough of the clinical trial lifecycle; what phases 1, 2, and 3 are designed to prove, why safety monitoring is so intensive, and how teams turn trial data into real-world treatment options. From COVID-era shifts toward telehealth and home health nursing to the rise of AI tools that have potential to reduce administrative burden, the conversation highlights how clinical operations are evolving fast and why trust with patients, sites, and partners remains non-negotiable.

]]> In this episode of Leap Together, Zach sits down with Robin Schmidt, a clinical operations expert, to unpack the behind-the-scenes work that makes clinical research move. With over 30 years of experience across pharma and biotech, Robin shares her journey into clinical trials, the “village” it takes to execute studies well, and why culture and respectful partnerships are often the difference between a smooth trial and a painful one.


Robin also offers a clear walkthrough of the clinical trial lifecycle; what phases 1, 2, and 3 are designed to prove, why safety monitoring is so intensive, and how teams turn trial data into real-world treatment options. From COVID-era shifts toward telehealth and home health nursing to the rise of AI tools that have potential to reduce administrative burden, the conversation highlights how clinical operations are evolving fast and why trust with patients, sites, and partners remains non-negotiable.

]]> Mon, 12 Jan 2026 02:16:40 -0800 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 1920 In this episode of Leap Together, Zach sits down with Robin Schmidt, a clinical operations expert, to unpack the behind-the-scenes work that makes clinical research move. With over 30 years of experience across pharma and biotech, Robin shares her journey into clinical trials, the “village” it takes to execute studies well, and why culture and respectful partnerships are often the difference between a smooth trial and a painful one.


Robin also offers a clear walkthrough of the clinical trial lifecycle; what phases 1, 2, and 3 are designed to prove, why safety monitoring is so intensive, and how teams turn trial data into real-world treatment options. From COVID-era shifts toward telehealth and home health nursing to the rise of AI tools that have potential to reduce administrative burden, the conversation highlights how clinical operations are evolving fast and why trust with patients, sites, and partners remains non-negotiable.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Zach Gobst Robin Schmidt Vish Srivastava - Co-founder and CEO of Century Health 11 11 Vish Srivastava - Co-founder and CEO of Century Health full 81132261-114d-4aa6-999b-32c2c91c903d https://share.transistor.fm/s/34006b4c In this episode of Leap Together, host Zach Gobst sits down with Vish Srivastava, Co-Founder and CEO of Century Health, to explore how AI and real-world clinical data can accelerate breakthrough treatments and create more inclusive research.

Vish shares his journey into healthcare technology, shaped by both professional experience and deeply personal motivation, and explains why so much of today’s most valuable clinical insight lives outside academic medical centers. Together, they discuss the challenges of unlocking fragmented community-based data, the limitations of traditional registries, and why underrepresented patient populations hold the key to answering some of medicine’s most important unanswered questions.

The conversation also dives into Century Health’s thoughtful approach to applying AI in healthcare: why trust, transparency, and validation matter, how models are evaluated against human clinicians, and what it really takes to build AI systems that can be relied on for research and patient impact.

From founding a company in a complex healthcare ecosystem to designing AI that earns clinical trust, this episode is a candid look at what it means to take the harder path in order to make a meaningful difference for patients.

]]> In this episode of Leap Together, host Zach Gobst sits down with Vish Srivastava, Co-Founder and CEO of Century Health, to explore how AI and real-world clinical data can accelerate breakthrough treatments and create more inclusive research.

Vish shares his journey into healthcare technology, shaped by both professional experience and deeply personal motivation, and explains why so much of today’s most valuable clinical insight lives outside academic medical centers. Together, they discuss the challenges of unlocking fragmented community-based data, the limitations of traditional registries, and why underrepresented patient populations hold the key to answering some of medicine’s most important unanswered questions.

The conversation also dives into Century Health’s thoughtful approach to applying AI in healthcare: why trust, transparency, and validation matter, how models are evaluated against human clinicians, and what it really takes to build AI systems that can be relied on for research and patient impact.

From founding a company in a complex healthcare ecosystem to designing AI that earns clinical trust, this episode is a candid look at what it means to take the harder path in order to make a meaningful difference for patients.

]]> Mon, 05 Jan 2026 03:14:00 -0800 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 1903 In this episode of Leap Together, host Zach Gobst sits down with Vish Srivastava, Co-Founder and CEO of Century Health, to explore how AI and real-world clinical data can accelerate breakthrough treatments and create more inclusive research.

Vish shares his journey into healthcare technology, shaped by both professional experience and deeply personal motivation, and explains why so much of today’s most valuable clinical insight lives outside academic medical centers. Together, they discuss the challenges of unlocking fragmented community-based data, the limitations of traditional registries, and why underrepresented patient populations hold the key to answering some of medicine’s most important unanswered questions.

The conversation also dives into Century Health’s thoughtful approach to applying AI in healthcare: why trust, transparency, and validation matter, how models are evaluated against human clinicians, and what it really takes to build AI systems that can be relied on for research and patient impact.

From founding a company in a complex healthcare ecosystem to designing AI that earns clinical trust, this episode is a candid look at what it means to take the harder path in order to make a meaningful difference for patients.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, EQuitable Clinical Trials, EQuitable Research, Health Data, Healthcare Innovation, Patient Registries, Patient Centricity, Community Health Data No Zach Gobst Vish Srivastava Dr. Tejaswini Kulkarni - Investigator and Director of Interstitial Lung Disease at UAB 10 10 Dr. Tejaswini Kulkarni - Investigator and Director of Interstitial Lung Disease at UAB full ba2c232e-3c3c-4d17-b7f3-bfa1f564fa42 https://share.transistor.fm/s/87aef4c1 Pulmonologist Dr. Tejaswini Kulkarni, Director of Interstitial Lung Disease at UAB, joins Leap Together to share how she approaches diagnosing and managing Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs), particularly Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), and why patient education must guide every step. She discusses improving access for rural communities, designing ethical, truly patient-centric trials, and capturing outcomes that matter through registries and patient-reported outcomes. Tune in for practical ways sponsors, sites, and advocates can collaborate without compromising care or research quality.

]]> Pulmonologist Dr. Tejaswini Kulkarni, Director of Interstitial Lung Disease at UAB, joins Leap Together to share how she approaches diagnosing and managing Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs), particularly Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), and why patient education must guide every step. She discusses improving access for rural communities, designing ethical, truly patient-centric trials, and capturing outcomes that matter through registries and patient-reported outcomes. Tune in for practical ways sponsors, sites, and advocates can collaborate without compromising care or research quality.

]]> Tue, 11 Nov 2025 03:14:00 -0800 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 2581 Pulmonologist Dr. Tejaswini Kulkarni, Director of Interstitial Lung Disease at UAB, joins Leap Together to share how she approaches diagnosing and managing Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs), particularly Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), and why patient education must guide every step. She discusses improving access for rural communities, designing ethical, truly patient-centric trials, and capturing outcomes that matter through registries and patient-reported outcomes. Tune in for practical ways sponsors, sites, and advocates can collaborate without compromising care or research quality.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Zach Gobst Dr. Tejaswini Kulkarni Liza Micioni - Tris Pharma Head of Clinical Operations 9 9 Liza Micioni - Tris Pharma Head of Clinical Operations full 72d9efe8-e398-4fcb-991e-df70c1b0fdc1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a4977d60 In this epsiode of Leap Together, Tris Pharma’s Head of Clinical Operations, Liza Micioni, distills 25+ years of end-to-end study leadership. She discusses how durable physician relationships speed decisions and drive site follow-through, and how steady cross-functional rhythms keep “your delay becomes my delay” from taking root. 

Liza unpacks the real trade-offs of the clin-ops triangle: time, budget, and quality. She explains that quality is non-negotiable, while timelines and budgets need to flex to meet reality. She shares practical stories of creative, “figure-it-out” logistics, when extending a timeline is the right call, and a grounded take on where AI truly helps (and where it doesn’t) in today’s trials.

Above all, her north star never wavers: improving individual lives, one patient at a time.

]]> In this epsiode of Leap Together, Tris Pharma’s Head of Clinical Operations, Liza Micioni, distills 25+ years of end-to-end study leadership. She discusses how durable physician relationships speed decisions and drive site follow-through, and how steady cross-functional rhythms keep “your delay becomes my delay” from taking root. 

Liza unpacks the real trade-offs of the clin-ops triangle: time, budget, and quality. She explains that quality is non-negotiable, while timelines and budgets need to flex to meet reality. She shares practical stories of creative, “figure-it-out” logistics, when extending a timeline is the right call, and a grounded take on where AI truly helps (and where it doesn’t) in today’s trials.

Above all, her north star never wavers: improving individual lives, one patient at a time.

]]> Mon, 22 Sep 2025 03:14:00 -0700 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 1957 In this epsiode of Leap Together, Tris Pharma’s Head of Clinical Operations, Liza Micioni, distills 25+ years of end-to-end study leadership. She discusses how durable physician relationships speed decisions and drive site follow-through, and how steady cross-functional rhythms keep “your delay becomes my delay” from taking root. 

Liza unpacks the real trade-offs of the clin-ops triangle: time, budget, and quality. She explains that quality is non-negotiable, while timelines and budgets need to flex to meet reality. She shares practical stories of creative, “figure-it-out” logistics, when extending a timeline is the right call, and a grounded take on where AI truly helps (and where it doesn’t) in today’s trials.

Above all, her north star never wavers: improving individual lives, one patient at a time.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Zach Gobst Liza Micioni Dr. Todd Bertoch - Principal Investigator and Pain Management Researcher 8 8 Dr. Todd Bertoch - Principal Investigator and Pain Management Researcher full a56ce5ec-cdd8-4d78-9233-0b13683f2330 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9826f473 In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re honored to feature Dr. Todd Bertoch, principal investigator and pain management researcher. Drawing on decades in the OR and more than 160 clinical trials, Dr. Bertoch shares how the opioid-first era shaped his early career and why he now champions multimodal, mechanism-targeted approaches that prioritize function, safety, and real-world impact.


Join us as Dr. Bertoch breaks down why pain is so hard to measure, how sites and sponsors can reduce participant burden without sacrificing rigor, and the moments that pushed him to challenge entrenched norms in study design. We also explore practical strategies for improving recruitment and retention, communicating realistic pain goals with patients and caregivers, and where the field is headed as new non-opioid targets and smarter endpoints emerge.


Tune in for a clear, grounded conversation on building faster, more inclusive pain studies and on what it takes to move beyond “raise the dose” toward care that truly improves patients’ lives.

]]> In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re honored to feature Dr. Todd Bertoch, principal investigator and pain management researcher. Drawing on decades in the OR and more than 160 clinical trials, Dr. Bertoch shares how the opioid-first era shaped his early career and why he now champions multimodal, mechanism-targeted approaches that prioritize function, safety, and real-world impact.


Join us as Dr. Bertoch breaks down why pain is so hard to measure, how sites and sponsors can reduce participant burden without sacrificing rigor, and the moments that pushed him to challenge entrenched norms in study design. We also explore practical strategies for improving recruitment and retention, communicating realistic pain goals with patients and caregivers, and where the field is headed as new non-opioid targets and smarter endpoints emerge.


Tune in for a clear, grounded conversation on building faster, more inclusive pain studies and on what it takes to move beyond “raise the dose” toward care that truly improves patients’ lives.

]]> Mon, 01 Sep 2025 03:14:00 -0700 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 1627 In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re honored to feature Dr. Todd Bertoch, principal investigator and pain management researcher. Drawing on decades in the OR and more than 160 clinical trials, Dr. Bertoch shares how the opioid-first era shaped his early career and why he now champions multimodal, mechanism-targeted approaches that prioritize function, safety, and real-world impact.


Join us as Dr. Bertoch breaks down why pain is so hard to measure, how sites and sponsors can reduce participant burden without sacrificing rigor, and the moments that pushed him to challenge entrenched norms in study design. We also explore practical strategies for improving recruitment and retention, communicating realistic pain goals with patients and caregivers, and where the field is headed as new non-opioid targets and smarter endpoints emerge.


Tune in for a clear, grounded conversation on building faster, more inclusive pain studies and on what it takes to move beyond “raise the dose” toward care that truly improves patients’ lives.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Pain Management, No Zach Gobst Dr. Todd Bertoch Dr. Michele Reynolds - Multispecialty Research Principal Investigator 7 7 Dr. Michele Reynolds - Multispecialty Research Principal Investigator full dc705469-e1a1-4655-bce5-9ce38687bd7d https://share.transistor.fm/s/ec10489f In this episode of Leap Together, Zachary Gobst talks with Dr. Michele Reynolds, a family medicine physician turned ACRP-certified principal investigator who has led more than 400 clinical trials over three decades. What began as a “lucky accident” became a career defined by precision, patient education, and strong sponsor partnerships.

Dr. Reynolds shares how mentorship shaped her approach, why building trust with monitors and recruitment teams leads to better outcomes. She discusses how she’s navigated changes in the industry, from recruiting “right-fit” participants to contributing to pivotal vaccine research during COVID-19.

From lessons learned in the field to insights on maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle in research, this conversation is a masterclass in running studies that make a difference for both science and patients.

]]> In this episode of Leap Together, Zachary Gobst talks with Dr. Michele Reynolds, a family medicine physician turned ACRP-certified principal investigator who has led more than 400 clinical trials over three decades. What began as a “lucky accident” became a career defined by precision, patient education, and strong sponsor partnerships.

Dr. Reynolds shares how mentorship shaped her approach, why building trust with monitors and recruitment teams leads to better outcomes. She discusses how she’s navigated changes in the industry, from recruiting “right-fit” participants to contributing to pivotal vaccine research during COVID-19.

From lessons learned in the field to insights on maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle in research, this conversation is a masterclass in running studies that make a difference for both science and patients.

]]> Fri, 15 Aug 2025 03:11:00 -0700 Leapcure Leapcure 1299 In this episode of Leap Together, Zachary Gobst talks with Dr. Michele Reynolds, a family medicine physician turned ACRP-certified principal investigator who has led more than 400 clinical trials over three decades. What began as a “lucky accident” became a career defined by precision, patient education, and strong sponsor partnerships.

Dr. Reynolds shares how mentorship shaped her approach, why building trust with monitors and recruitment teams leads to better outcomes. She discusses how she’s navigated changes in the industry, from recruiting “right-fit” participants to contributing to pivotal vaccine research during COVID-19.

From lessons learned in the field to insights on maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle in research, this conversation is a masterclass in running studies that make a difference for both science and patients.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Zach Gobst Dr. Michele Reynolds Dr. Mark Gorovoy - Ophthalmologist and DSAEK Pioneer 6 6 Dr. Mark Gorovoy - Ophthalmologist and DSAEK Pioneer full 7ace3606-3f11-4411-954b-0f2575f10543 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f3b94bff On this episode of Leap Together, Dr. Mark Gorovoy joins host Zach Gobst to reflect on a remarkable career at the cutting edge of ophthalmic surgery. As a pioneer of DSAEK, Dr. Gorovoy shares how embracing high-volume surgical practice, learning from complications, and staying patient-focused led to major breakthroughs in corneal care. This episode dives into the art of innovation in medicine, from early skepticism to system-wide adoption, and why some treatments can reshape care forever. An episode for anyone passionate about progress in clinical trials, ophthalmology, and patient-centered innovation. 

]]> On this episode of Leap Together, Dr. Mark Gorovoy joins host Zach Gobst to reflect on a remarkable career at the cutting edge of ophthalmic surgery. As a pioneer of DSAEK, Dr. Gorovoy shares how embracing high-volume surgical practice, learning from complications, and staying patient-focused led to major breakthroughs in corneal care. This episode dives into the art of innovation in medicine, from early skepticism to system-wide adoption, and why some treatments can reshape care forever. An episode for anyone passionate about progress in clinical trials, ophthalmology, and patient-centered innovation. 

]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2025 03:14:00 -0700 Leapcure Leapcure 1865 On this episode of Leap Together, Dr. Mark Gorovoy joins host Zach Gobst to reflect on a remarkable career at the cutting edge of ophthalmic surgery. As a pioneer of DSAEK, Dr. Gorovoy shares how embracing high-volume surgical practice, learning from complications, and staying patient-focused led to major breakthroughs in corneal care. This episode dives into the art of innovation in medicine, from early skepticism to system-wide adoption, and why some treatments can reshape care forever. An episode for anyone passionate about progress in clinical trials, ophthalmology, and patient-centered innovation. 

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Innovation, Dr. Mark Gorovoy, DSAEK, Opthalmology, Vision Care, Surgical Innovation, Patient Advocacy, Study Design, Leap Together Podcast, Leapcure No Zach Gobst Dr. Mark Gorovoy Joel Stanley: CEO of AJNA BioSciences 5 5 Joel Stanley: CEO of AJNA BioSciences full fbd45704-97ba-43b9-830f-78357d4e5253 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bc0b1771 In this episode of Leap Together, host Zach Gobst sits down with Joel Stanley, founder and former CEO of Charlotte’s Web, and now CEO of AJNA Biosciences, to explore the pioneering path from supplement to FDA-approved botanical drug. Joel shares the powerful origin story of Charlotte’s Web, the lessons learned from navigating the unregulated CBD market, and how those insights now fuel his mission to bring safe, standardized plant-based therapeutics to patients through AJNA Biosciences.

Learn how Joel and his team are working to bridge the gap between natural medicine and clinical science, what it takes to build physician advocacy, and why access, not just efficacy, is the next frontier in healthcare innovation.

Whether you're a clinical leader, researcher, or founder, tune into this episode for a blueprint for building science-backed solutions that start with compassion.

]]> In this episode of Leap Together, host Zach Gobst sits down with Joel Stanley, founder and former CEO of Charlotte’s Web, and now CEO of AJNA Biosciences, to explore the pioneering path from supplement to FDA-approved botanical drug. Joel shares the powerful origin story of Charlotte’s Web, the lessons learned from navigating the unregulated CBD market, and how those insights now fuel his mission to bring safe, standardized plant-based therapeutics to patients through AJNA Biosciences.

Learn how Joel and his team are working to bridge the gap between natural medicine and clinical science, what it takes to build physician advocacy, and why access, not just efficacy, is the next frontier in healthcare innovation.

Whether you're a clinical leader, researcher, or founder, tune into this episode for a blueprint for building science-backed solutions that start with compassion.

]]> Mon, 28 Jul 2025 03:11:00 -0700 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 2406 In this episode of Leap Together, host Zach Gobst sits down with Joel Stanley, founder and former CEO of Charlotte’s Web, and now CEO of AJNA Biosciences, to explore the pioneering path from supplement to FDA-approved botanical drug. Joel shares the powerful origin story of Charlotte’s Web, the lessons learned from navigating the unregulated CBD market, and how those insights now fuel his mission to bring safe, standardized plant-based therapeutics to patients through AJNA Biosciences.

Learn how Joel and his team are working to bridge the gap between natural medicine and clinical science, what it takes to build physician advocacy, and why access, not just efficacy, is the next frontier in healthcare innovation.

Whether you're a clinical leader, researcher, or founder, tune into this episode for a blueprint for building science-backed solutions that start with compassion.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Zach Gobst Joel Stanley Dr. Raymond Douglas: Oculoplastic Surgeon and Chief Scientific Officer at Sling Therapeutics 4 4 Dr. Raymond Douglas: Oculoplastic Surgeon and Chief Scientific Officer at Sling Therapeutics full 97484d7e-c894-48c3-b8af-77a90eb7f1d8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/750f9a32 In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Raymond Douglas, a world-renowned oculoplastic surgeon and Chief Scientific Officer at Sling Therapeutics. Known for his pioneering work in thyroid eye disease (TED), Dr. Douglas was a lead developer of Tepezza, the first FDA-approved treatment for TED; ushering in a new era of patient-centered innovation.


Dr. Douglas shares how his early work in oncology and immunology laid the foundation for breakthroughs in ophthalmology, and how deeply personal patient experiences inspired him to challenge the limitations of traditional care. We explore his journey from lab research to global impact, the growing role of personalized medicine, and how collaboration, mentorship, and empathy have shaped his mission.


Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of TED, reducing barriers to clinical trial access, and how translational science, when paired with compassion, can redefine what’s possible in modern medicine.

]]> In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Raymond Douglas, a world-renowned oculoplastic surgeon and Chief Scientific Officer at Sling Therapeutics. Known for his pioneering work in thyroid eye disease (TED), Dr. Douglas was a lead developer of Tepezza, the first FDA-approved treatment for TED; ushering in a new era of patient-centered innovation.


Dr. Douglas shares how his early work in oncology and immunology laid the foundation for breakthroughs in ophthalmology, and how deeply personal patient experiences inspired him to challenge the limitations of traditional care. We explore his journey from lab research to global impact, the growing role of personalized medicine, and how collaboration, mentorship, and empathy have shaped his mission.


Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of TED, reducing barriers to clinical trial access, and how translational science, when paired with compassion, can redefine what’s possible in modern medicine.

]]> Mon, 14 Jul 2025 03:10:00 -0700 Leapcure Leapcure 2003 In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Raymond Douglas, a world-renowned oculoplastic surgeon and Chief Scientific Officer at Sling Therapeutics. Known for his pioneering work in thyroid eye disease (TED), Dr. Douglas was a lead developer of Tepezza, the first FDA-approved treatment for TED; ushering in a new era of patient-centered innovation.


Dr. Douglas shares how his early work in oncology and immunology laid the foundation for breakthroughs in ophthalmology, and how deeply personal patient experiences inspired him to challenge the limitations of traditional care. We explore his journey from lab research to global impact, the growing role of personalized medicine, and how collaboration, mentorship, and empathy have shaped his mission.


Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of TED, reducing barriers to clinical trial access, and how translational science, when paired with compassion, can redefine what’s possible in modern medicine.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Thyroid Eye Disease, Ophthalmology, Oculoplastic, Personalized Medicine No Zach Gobst Dr. Raymond Douglas Zach Gobst: CEO of Leapcure 3 3 Zach Gobst: CEO of Leapcure full 04aeb65b-8edf-40e5-8cb7-494e4c75acb2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a43b18df In this special episode of Leap Together, we flip the mic and put our very own CEO, Zach Gobst, in the guest seat. Interviewed by Chad Franzen of Rise25, Zach shares the personal story that led him to launch Leapcure and the values that continue to guide the company nearly a decade later.

Zach dives into:

  • How a family health scare sparked his commitment to clinical research
  • The evolution of Leapcure from a tech startup to a purpose-driven services company
  • The power of true partnerships with sponsors, sites, and advocacy groups
  • Why empathy, equity, and patient understanding are the future of clinical trials
  • Lessons in leadership, company culture, and building a team that leads with impact

This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the heart and mission of Leapcure and why we believe clinical trials work best when everyone’s voice is heard.

]]> In this special episode of Leap Together, we flip the mic and put our very own CEO, Zach Gobst, in the guest seat. Interviewed by Chad Franzen of Rise25, Zach shares the personal story that led him to launch Leapcure and the values that continue to guide the company nearly a decade later.

Zach dives into:

  • How a family health scare sparked his commitment to clinical research
  • The evolution of Leapcure from a tech startup to a purpose-driven services company
  • The power of true partnerships with sponsors, sites, and advocacy groups
  • Why empathy, equity, and patient understanding are the future of clinical trials
  • Lessons in leadership, company culture, and building a team that leads with impact

This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the heart and mission of Leapcure and why we believe clinical trials work best when everyone’s voice is heard.

]]> Mon, 30 Jun 2025 03:11:00 -0700 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 1710 In this special episode of Leap Together, we flip the mic and put our very own CEO, Zach Gobst, in the guest seat. Interviewed by Chad Franzen of Rise25, Zach shares the personal story that led him to launch Leapcure and the values that continue to guide the company nearly a decade later.

Zach dives into:

  • How a family health scare sparked his commitment to clinical research
  • The evolution of Leapcure from a tech startup to a purpose-driven services company
  • The power of true partnerships with sponsors, sites, and advocacy groups
  • Why empathy, equity, and patient understanding are the future of clinical trials
  • Lessons in leadership, company culture, and building a team that leads with impact

This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the heart and mission of Leapcure and why we believe clinical trials work best when everyone’s voice is heard.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No Zach Gobst Chad Franzen Taleena Koch: Founder of Breathe Support Network 2 2 Taleena Koch: Founder of Breathe Support Network full d7335379-7feb-47dd-b1d2-8b993769e7e8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bf25246f In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re honored to feature Taleena Koch, founder of the Breathe Support Network. Driven by personal experience caring for her mother diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), Taleena transformed her journey into a powerful advocacy network supporting thousands navigating respiratory diseases.

Join us as Taleena shares how personal caregiving challenges sparked her passion for advocacy, the critical gaps she discovered in patient support, and her remarkable effort in building a global community dedicated to education, empowerment, and connection. We also dive into the evolving landscape of clinical research, insights into lung transplantation advancements, and how advocacy plays a pivotal role in shaping more patient-centric trials.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on turning personal trials into impactful triumphs, and discover how collaborative advocacy can genuinely transform lives.

]]> In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re honored to feature Taleena Koch, founder of the Breathe Support Network. Driven by personal experience caring for her mother diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), Taleena transformed her journey into a powerful advocacy network supporting thousands navigating respiratory diseases.

Join us as Taleena shares how personal caregiving challenges sparked her passion for advocacy, the critical gaps she discovered in patient support, and her remarkable effort in building a global community dedicated to education, empowerment, and connection. We also dive into the evolving landscape of clinical research, insights into lung transplantation advancements, and how advocacy plays a pivotal role in shaping more patient-centric trials.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on turning personal trials into impactful triumphs, and discover how collaborative advocacy can genuinely transform lives.

]]> Mon, 16 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0700 Leapcure Leapcure 2376 In this episode of the Leap Together podcast, we’re honored to feature Taleena Koch, founder of the Breathe Support Network. Driven by personal experience caring for her mother diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), Taleena transformed her journey into a powerful advocacy network supporting thousands navigating respiratory diseases.

Join us as Taleena shares how personal caregiving challenges sparked her passion for advocacy, the critical gaps she discovered in patient support, and her remarkable effort in building a global community dedicated to education, empowerment, and connection. We also dive into the evolving landscape of clinical research, insights into lung transplantation advancements, and how advocacy plays a pivotal role in shaping more patient-centric trials.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on turning personal trials into impactful triumphs, and discover how collaborative advocacy can genuinely transform lives.

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Pulmonary Fibrosis, PF, Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, IPF No Zach Gobst Laura Brencher Taleena Koch Christine Gustafson: CEO of TED Community Organization 1 1 Christine Gustafson: CEO of TED Community Organization full 809e484d-02ce-4329-b9bc-2f5190617234 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4857fd9f In the first Leap Together episode, host Zach Gobst talks with Christine Gustafson, founder and CEO of the Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) Community Organization. Christine shares her journey from isolated patient to global advocate, emphasizing the power of community in overcoming fear and isolation. They discuss parallels between entrepreneurship and advocacy, highlighting the importance of flexibility, curiosity, and authenticity. Christine’s insights underscore the vital role patient advocacy plays in clinical research and treatment advancements for TED. 

]]> In the first Leap Together episode, host Zach Gobst talks with Christine Gustafson, founder and CEO of the Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) Community Organization. Christine shares her journey from isolated patient to global advocate, emphasizing the power of community in overcoming fear and isolation. They discuss parallels between entrepreneurship and advocacy, highlighting the importance of flexibility, curiosity, and authenticity. Christine’s insights underscore the vital role patient advocacy plays in clinical research and treatment advancements for TED. 

]]> Mon, 02 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0700 Leapcure Leapcure 2574 In the first Leap Together episode, host Zach Gobst talks with Christine Gustafson, founder and CEO of the Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) Community Organization. Christine shares her journey from isolated patient to global advocate, emphasizing the power of community in overcoming fear and isolation. They discuss parallels between entrepreneurship and advocacy, highlighting the importance of flexibility, curiosity, and authenticity. Christine’s insights underscore the vital role patient advocacy plays in clinical research and treatment advancements for TED. 

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Thyroid Eye Disease, Graves Disease, No Zach Gobst Christine Gustafson Leap Together Podcast Trailer 1 1 Leap Together Podcast Trailer trailer 0dca71ce-8279-482d-bc56-04e89466280b https://share.transistor.fm/s/11df345c Welcome to the Leap Together podcast, where we highlight top leaders driving breakthroughs in clinical research and life sciences. 

]]> Welcome to the Leap Together podcast, where we highlight top leaders driving breakthroughs in clinical research and life sciences. 

]]> Thu, 29 May 2025 19:43:35 -0700 Leapcure Inc. Leapcure Inc. 51 Welcome to the Leap Together podcast, where we highlight top leaders driving breakthroughs in clinical research and life sciences. 

]]> Clinical Trials, Clinical Research, Patient Advocacy, Patient Engagement, BioTech No