The Life Sciences Leadership Show
The Life Sciences Leadership Show
Podcast Description
Welcome to The Life Sciences Leadership Show, your source for insights and inspiration from the forefront of the biotech, pharma, and life sciences industries. Hosted by leadership communication and executive coach Michael Piperno, this podcast delves deep into the art and science of leadership within these dynamic fields.
Each episode features candid conversations with top executives and thought leaders who share their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs. Discover the strategies and communication techniques that have propelled them to the pinnacle of their careers.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast emphasizes leadership strategies, communication techniques, and personal stories from industry leaders. Episodes often cover themes such as stakeholder alignment, transitioning from big pharma to startups, and the unique challenges in early and mid-stage biotech. An example episode includes a conversation about leadership communication and the insights from David Esposito's career journey in the life sciences.

Welcome to The Life Sciences Leadership Show, your source for insights and inspiration from the forefront of the biotech, pharma, and life sciences industries. Hosted by leadership communication and executive coach Michael Piperno, this podcast delves deep into the art and science of leadership within these dynamic fields.
Each episode features candid conversations with top executives and thought leaders who share their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs. Discover the strategies and communication techniques that have propelled them to the pinnacle of their careers.
In this episode of The Life Sciences Leadership Show, host Michael Piperno sits down with Ramani Varanasi—biotech executive, founder of Revive Advisors, and former president and CEO of Xbiotics Therapeutics. Ramani shares her dynamic leadership journey, which spans academia, big pharma, and biotech startups, offering a candid look at the risks, pivots, and lessons learned along the way.
Her story is one of bold transitions and thoughtful leadership. From navigating the shift from large organizations to fast-paced startups, to balancing scientific rigor with business strategy, Ramani brings a unique perspective on what it takes to lead in the life sciences. She emphasizes the importance of empathy, vulnerability, and transparency in building strong, resilient teams.
Michael and Ramani explore the realities of biotech leadership—from the common pitfalls new CEOs face to the value of asking for help and leading with intention. Their conversation highlights how emotional intelligence and clear communication can foster cultures of trust, respect, and innovation.
Here are a few of the topics they discuss in the episode:
- How to lead through uncertainty and change
- Why empathy and vulnerability are essential leadership tools
- Lessons learned from transitioning between big pharma and biotech
- The importance of balancing scientific and business acumen
- How to build and empower teams through transparency and trust
Whether you're just beginning your leadership journey or looking to refine your approach at the executive level, this episode offers honest insights and practical advice to help you lead with clarity and confidence.

Disclaimer
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