

Grow Everything Biotech Podcast
Messaginglab
Grow Everything explores the world of biology as technology. Hosts Erum Khan and Karl Schmieder interview leaders and influencers biologizing industries with tools like synthetic biology, precision fermentation, bioprospecting, and more. These companies make biomaterials from waste, cosmetics that restore healthy hair and skin, and delicious cultivated foods in a bioreactor and so much more. Join us as we discuss the latest and greatest across biotech, engineered biology, entrepreneurship, and culture and how this transition is solving healthcare and climate change challenges.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 13, 2023 • 1h 17min
46. Meat the Future: How Paul Shapiro is Brewing Superfoods at Better Meat Co.
Episode Description:
Paul Shapiro joins Karl and Erum to delve into a world where science and speculation collide. The episode sails through the fascinating journey of fungi protein production, exploring the intricacies of utilizing alternative feedstocks and the financial challenges faced by the cultivated meat industry. Amidst the scientific discourse, the conversation takes unexpected turns, venturing into the realms of alien technology theories and reflections on nature during high-altitude hikes. This episode is not merely a discussion but a journey, inviting listeners to ponder the ethical, scientific, and potentially otherworldly implications of our food production and technological advancements.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Navigating the Frontier of Cultivated Meat and Biotech Innovation with Paul Shapiro
00:03:17 Savoring Local: A Culinary Adventure Through Cheese and Pastries
00:08:58 Addressing the Gap: A Look into the Underrepresentation of Women in Science and Nobel Recognitions
00:15:41 Fashion Meets Science: A Glimpse into Biotech Materials and AI in Apparel
00:19:07 Venturing into Sustainability: Paul Shapiro on Fungi, AI, and the Path Forward for Clean Meat
00:21:47 The Activist's Journey: Paul Shapiro’s Transition from Advocacy to the Better Meat Co
00:26:42 A Culinary Transition: The Shift from Enjoying to Innovating Meat Alternatives
00:35:49 Behind the Financial Curtain: Understanding Government Subsidies in Livestock Agriculture
00:38:18 Pushing Boundaries with Government Support: A Look at Revolutionizing Biotech Research
00:42:37 Understanding Fungi: Exploring Its Evolutionary Link to Animal Kingdom
00:45:10 Harnessing the Power of Fungi: Leading the Charge Towards Sustainable Protein Sources
00:49:54 Behind Affordable Poultry: Investigating Animal Welfare Issues in Chicken Production
00:52:20 The Banana Journey: Evolution, Design, and Its Remarkable Story
01:00:52 Future Foods: Navigating the Scaling of Superfoods and Alternative Meats
01:04:32 Solving for Scale and Social Issues: Engaging with a Biotech Podcast Peer
01:09:08 Surpassing Expectations: Aiming for Alternative Proteins to Rival Animal Meat in Flavor and Affordability
Episode Links:
Paul Shapiro
LinkedIn
Clean Meat: How Growing Meat Without Animals Will Revolutionize Dinner and the World (Book)
Business for Good (Podcast)
What Farm Subsidies Are and Why They Matter, Explained (Article)
Better Meat Co. (Company)
Good Food Institute (Company)
Sublime Systems (Company)
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube /
GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Oct 6, 2023 • 58min
45. Insuring Your Lunch: Aanika’s Vishaal Bhuyan Cracks the Microbial Code of Food Security
Episode Description:
Vishaal Bhuyan is a seasoned expert in biotechnology, risk management, and the agricultural sector, bringing a wealth of knowledge and innovative thinking to the table. With a keen eye for identifying and solving problems through technology, Vishaal Bhuyan has been instrumental in developing and implementing strategies that marry technical expertise with practical applications in the real world. From exploring the environmental impacts of agricultural practices to pioneering insurance solutions in the biotech sphere, Vishaal Bhuyan continues to push the boundaries, seeking sustainable and impactful solutions in a rapidly evolving field.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Biotech Innovations with Vishaal Bhuyan
00:05:08 Vishaal's Vision: Marrying AI and Biotech in Agriculture's Future
00:07:26 Customizing Biotech: The Role and Potential of Chat GPT in Modern Agriculture
00:10:11 Harnessing Genetic Insights: Proactive Health and Biotech Convergence
00:13:29 Beyond Traditional Agriculture: The Rise and Challenges of Alternate Proteins
00:17:09 Navigating the Supply Chain: Ethical Implications in Snack Food Production
00:19:56 Securing the Future: DNA Traceability in Supply Chain Protection
00:21:43 Biotech Communication: Using the COVID-19 Analogy for Easy Understanding
00:26:07 Rethinking Insurance: Addressing Biotech Supply Chain Through Regulation and Innovative Strategies
00:28:19 The Next Wave in Food Safety: Speeding Up Investigations for Rapid Action
00:32:47 Poultry Debunked: What Does 'Free Range' Really Mean?
00:35:22 The Massive Scale of Industrial Agriculture: Implications and Insights
00:41:14 Streamlining Biotech Manufacturing: Navigating Challenges for Efficient Production
00:43:19 Harnessing Biotech in Regenerative Agriculture: The Insurance Incentive
00:49:53 Sustainable Farming: The Environmental Cost of Nitrogen Fertilizer Overuse
00:51:26 Rethinking Revenue Models in Biotech
00:54:32 Supporting Biotech Startups: Infrastructure and Shared Spaces in New York
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Twitter
Aanika Biosciences
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Sep 29, 2023 • 1h 11min
44. Spec-Tacular Science: A Chat with Michael Specter on Denying Denialism
Episode Description:
We dive into a myriad of topics ranging from the advancements in vaccine development to the revolutionary convergence of synthetic biology and AI. Michael Specter shares profound insights on the state of science, societal trust, and the transformative power of sustainability. They discuss technological achievements, the essence of wellness festivals in Zermatt, and the intriguing aspects of digital life creations. Michael Specter offers knowledge, exploration of contemporary themes that resonate with the curious minds seeking to understand the intricate tapestry of the modern world.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - Exploring Trust and Misinformation in the Age of COVID-19
00:03:38 - Global Perspectives: Insights and Learnings from Recent Travels
00:08:46 - The Environmental Conundrum: Individual Responsibility vs. Corporate Accountability
00:12:11 - Navigating Pandemic Realities: Discussions on Safety and Impact of COVID-19
00:16:12 - The Future of Synthetic Biology: Michael Specter’s Insightful Presentation at SynBio Beta
00:22:59 - The Allure of Synthetic Biology: Tracing the Origins of a Passion
00:27:38 - The Power of Sound: Uncovering Stories of Molecular Biology and Endangered Species
00:31:02 - Connecting Conservation and Pandemics: The Tale of the Black-Footed Ferret
00:34:52 - Regulatory Imperatives: Addressing the Pressing Needs in Biotechnology
00:40:37 - The Reach and Limits of Public Discourse: Reflections on TED Talks and Published Works
00:46:21 - Traversing the Vaccine Landscape: Evolution, Development, and Public Perception
00:50:53 - Dialogue and Understanding: The Role of Conversations in Demystifying Vaccines
00:52:11 - Bridging Divides: Articulating Goals and Understanding Generational Differences in Perspective
00:56:33 - Societal Distrust and Discontent in the Face of a Pandemic
00:59:51 - Impactful Storytelling: The Transformative Role of Documentaries and Education in Science Communication
01:06:40 - Integrative Approaches: The Intersection of Software, Technology, and Biotechnology in Modern Science
Episode Links:
Generation Dread
Brown Queer and Vegan podcast
Billion Dollar Creator podcast
We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman’s Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power
Higher Animals by Michael Specter
Denialism by Michael Specter
Website
LinkedIn
Michael Specter's Latest Articles
Wikipedia
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Sep 22, 2023 • 1h 11min
43. Emission Impossible: Lanzatech’s Zara Summers on Converting Carbon into Cash
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum dive deep into the world of AI regulation, genetic modification, and the impact of cinema on societal perceptions. With insights from Zara Summers the Chief Science Officer at LanzaTech, we explore the challenges and opportunities presented by exponential technologies and the importance of biodiversity conservation. From the vast prairies of America to the intricacies of a circular carbon economy, join us on a journey that bridges technology, nature, and culture.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - The Fashion World's Carbon Conundrum: Impact Beyond Aesthetics
00:04:59 - Biohacking: The Pursuit of Enhanced Focus and Longevity
00:07:02 - Navigating AI Regulation: Striking a Balance between Proposals and Policies
00:12:19 - The Debate on Oral Decongestants: Efficacy vs. Market Presence
00:19:10 - Bridging Biochemistry and Business: Turning Academic Insights into Real-world Solutions
00:23:09 - A Fresh Take on Carbon: Converting Emissions to Energy
00:24:20 - Above-Ground Carbon Recycling: A Sustainable Alternative to Underground Storage
00:28:43 - Waste-to-Ethanol: Japan's Eco-Innovative Approach to Trash Management
00:32:55 - Merging Carbon Reduction with Profitable Industrial Collaboration
00:36:25 - LanzaJet's Ambition: Pioneering Green Jet Fuel and Diesel Alternatives
00:40:26 - A Sustainable Successor to Palm Oil: Safeguarding Climate and Biodiversity
00:45:51 - Roadmap to a Greener Tomorrow: Biotech's Transformative Power
00:49:18 - Harnessing Exponential Tech to Mitigate CO2's Biodiversity Impact
00:53:59 - Breathing Life into Barren Lands: Strategies for Soil Revitalization
00:59:20 - A Renaissance for the Prairies: Merging Conservation and Sustainable Agriculture
01:01:18 - "Kiss The Ground": A Documentary with a Biological Call to Action
01:06:02 - LanzaTech's Vision: Redefining Jet Fuel and Fostering Cross-Industry Synergies
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
Twitter
LanzaTech
What’s Your Biostrategy by karl schmieder
DuplaBio (modular labs)
Lanzatech & H&M collection
Lanzatech & Adidas collection (Australian Open, Melbourne Collection)
Lanzajet
Kiss the Ground documentary
Prairie Profit$
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Sep 15, 2023 • 60min
42. An Algae-nius Solution to Big Textile with Keel Lab’s Tessa Callaghan
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum sit down with the Co-Founder and CEO of Keel Labs, Tessa Callaghan, diving deep into a world where personal memories intertwine with global challenges. From the nostalgic streets of Switzerland to the pressing concerns of the Pacific garbage patch, the trio embarks on a journey that touches on the intricacies of fashion fibers and the innovations shaping our future. As they celebrate the legacy of community biotech labs and explore the bustling bioeconomy showcases, Tessa's unique insights add a fresh layer to the conversation. Tune in for a blend of heartfelt stories, expert perspectives, and a glimpse into tomorrow's solutions.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 - Beginning Insights: Business Design in the Biotech World
00:05:48 - Journey Through Iran, Brazil, and Switzerland: Tessa's Global Perspectives
00:07:47 - Nostalgic Streets: Karl's Swiss Adventures
00:13:21 - Marrying Design & Biotech: Navigating the World of Bio Design
00:20:25 - Crafting a Brand: The Art of Naming for Startups
00:23:53 - Kelson's Breakthrough in the Textile Realm
00:26:15 - Revolutionizing Textiles: Kelson's Eco-Friendly Yarn Solutions
00:30:21 - Weighing the Pros & Cons: Using Alternative Wool Materials
00:34:16 - Embracing Open Doors: The Need for Collaboration in Biotech
00:38:51 - Pioneering Sustainable Dye Systems: A Collaborative Approach
00:42:24 - The Spirit of Innovation: Where Collaboration Meets Inspiration
00:46:47 - Reflecting on "Wind Up Girl": Globalization's Impact on Society & Tech
00:50:16 - Staying Nimble: Valuing Flexibility & Sustainability in Biotech Innovations
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
Keel Labs
Sabriya Stukes episode
BioDesign Challenge
ValleyDAO
Book Recommendations:
Windup Girl
Nine Lies About Work
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Sep 8, 2023 • 1h 7min
41. From Spinal Taps To Cellular Apps: Programming Life With Mark Kotter
Episode Description:
We get into the innovative world of cellular programming, exploring its potential in revolutionizing meat production with companies like Meatable at the forefront. We also touch upon the controversial Oxycontin epidemic, shedding light on Purdue Pharmaceuticals' aggressive marketing strategies. Mark Kotter, offers invaluable insights into the transformative work at Bit Bio, bridging the gap between fundamental science and real-world applications. Join us for a journey that spans from the intricacies of stem cells to the broader implications on society.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Introduction:From Spinal Taps To Cellular Apps: Programming Life
00:06:42 Future of Biotech: Collaborative Ventures Between Giants Like Ginko and Google
00:11:33 The Cutting Edge: Mark Kotter on Microbiome, Cellular and Gene Therapies
00:13:58 Journey of Innovation: Transitioning from Neurosurgery to Biotech Entrepreneurship
00:19:39 Harnessing the Power of Genes: Unlocking Brain Cell Creation in Synthetic Biology
00:25:19 Solving the Drug Discovery Enigma: Addressing Challenges in Alzheimer's Research
00:27:31 Revolutionizing Pharma: Bit Bio's Innovative Cellular Models
00:34:20 Exploring Two X Technology: Advancements in Stem Cell Differentiation
00:39:33 Feeding the Future: The Promise of Stem Cells in Sustainable Meat Production
00:44:07 Safe Genetic Editing: Understanding Genomic Safe Harbors
00:49:03 Reviving the Past: Can Stem Cells Resurrect Extinct Species?
00:52:00 Decoding Aging: The Role of Epigenetic Noise in Cellular Lifespans
00:54:40 Turning Back the Clock: Stem Cell Strategies for Rejuvenation
01:01:20 The Oxycontin Debate: Exploring Pain Management Concerns from a Listener's Viewpoint
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
Twitter
Bit Bio
Clock.Bio
Meatable
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Sep 1, 2023 • 32min
40. Moon Landings, Forever Chemicals, and Hogfish Skin: Erum & Karl’s Labor Day Bio Bonanza!
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum dive into the fascinating world of biotechnology and explore the endless possibilities that biology offers. From leveraging unique biochemical processes found in animals and microbes to developing adaptive sunscreen and innovative applications, we uncover how biology can enhance our daily lives. We also discuss the recent advancements in space research and the potential of organ-on-a-chip technology. Join us as we unlock the power of biology and discover the exciting frontiers of biotech.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Introduction to the Wonders of Biotechnology
00:02:03 Delving Deep: The Boundless Potential of Biology in Modern Tech
00:08:15 Space Research and Biotech: India's Pioneering Advances
00:13:05 Environmental Interactions: How Biology Responds to External Factors
00:18:27 The Marvel of Hog Fish Skin: Nature's Camouflage at its Best
00:20:43 Enhancing Daily Life: Bio-Innovations in Beauty and Personal Care
00:25:27 The Microscopic World: Innovative Applications of Organ-on-a-Chip Technology
Episode Links:
‘India Is on the Moon’: Lander’s Success Moves Nation to Next Space Chapter (NYT)
Forever Chemicals are Everywhere. What Are They Doing to Us? (NYT Mag)
Hogfish ‘See’ With Their Skin, Even When They’re Dead (NYT)
Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
Genspace Party Invitation - Text us for a discount code! (804) 505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Text or Call (804) 505-5553
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

Aug 25, 2023 • 1h 2min
39. From Microbe to Unicorn: IndieBio's Sabriya Stukes on the Journey of Biotech Startups
Episode Description:
We dive deep into the fascinating intersection of science fiction and real-world innovation. Sabriya Stukes, shares her journey from a microbiologist researching tuberculosis and HIV to the fast-paced world of startups and business. We explore the "Science Fiction Idea Bank," a reservoir of futuristic concepts that have inspired today's technological advancements. From artificial silk to the societal implications of fictional drugs, this episode is a testament to the power of imagination and its role in shaping our reality.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 Introduction: The Intersection of Science Fiction and Biotech Innovation
00:01:20 The "Science Fiction Idea Bank": Fueling Today's Technological Breakthroughs
00:05:32 How Sci-fi Visions Pave the Way for Startup Innovations
00:09:20 Biotech Wonders: From Imaginary Implants to Performance-enhancing Drugs
00:11:41 Sabriya Stukes: From Microbiologist to Startup Success
00:14:23 Indie Bio's Mission: Molding Scientists into Savvy Entrepreneurs
00:21:28 Weighing Career Paths: Scientist vs. Entrepreneur
00:24:14 Merging Worlds: Introducing Business Acumen to Scientific Endeavors
00:27:58 Evaluating Biotech Startups: The Thrills and Complexities
00:30:22 Key Elements of Biotech Success: Funding and Market Needs
00:33:46 Winning Over Investors: The Art of Storytelling in Biotech
00:35:09 Crafting a Biotech Venture: Passion and Effective Communication
00:41:00 Merging Business and Science: A Comprehensive Approach to Startup Analysis
00:49:31 Community's Role in Nurturing and Supporting Biotech Ventures
00:51:03 From Small Victories to Major Breakthroughs: A Glimpse into Startup Growth
00:52:06 Celebrating Milestones: Achievements in a Biotech Food Program
00:55:22 Indie Bio's Legacy: Leading Investor in Promising Biotech Startups
01:00:05 Networking and Crafting a Compelling Biotech Investment Narrative
Episode Links:
LinkedIn
IndieBio
Twitter
Instagram
SOSV
Not Boring SciFi Idea Bank
Technovelgy.com
Captagon: the drug fuelling the Gulf party scene - and Syria's finances
AIMA - CBD period pain relief
Nukoko- cocoa free chocolate
Climate Capital on what founders needs
Call or Text the Grow Everything Hotline: +1 804-505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media

21 snips
Aug 18, 2023 • 1h 11min
38. Back From The Dead And Ready To Party: Passenger Pigeons, De-extinction, & Cloning with Revive & Restore's Ben Novak
Ben Novak, a conservation scientist at Revive & Restore, dives into the fascinating world of de-extinction and biotechnology for bird conservation. He unpacks the dramatic decline of the passenger pigeon, revealing its ecological significance and the innovative efforts to bring it back to life. The discussion covers biobanking in wildlife conservation and the ethical implications of reviving extinct species. Novak also highlights how biotechnology can help restore ecosystems impacted by climate change, offering a hopeful perspective on biodiversity's future.

Aug 11, 2023 • 31min
37. Biotech Business Stories, Dangerous Giveaways, and Cultivated Meat with Karl and Erum
Episode Description:
Karl and Erum discuss the mission of their podcast, Grow Everything, which aims to bring biotechnology into the mainstream and shed light on the impact of biotech innovations. They reflect on the inspiration behind starting the podcast and the importance of sharing conversations about biotech and science storytelling. Karl and Erum also provide updates on recent events and projects, such as teaching entrepreneurs how to tell their life science stories and attending an alternative protein potluck.
Grow Everything brings to life the bioeconomy when hosts Karl Schmieder and Erum Azeez Khan share stories from the field and interview leaders and influencers in the space. Life is a powerful force and it can be engineered. What are we creating?
Learn more at www.messaginglab.com/groweverything
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 The Mission and Passion for Biotech
00:01:15 Dive into the Inspiration Behind Grow Everything
00:04:53 The Crucial Role of Storytelling in Biotech Startups
00:08:46 Exciting Updates: From Teaching Life Science Narratives to Alt Protein Gatherings
00:12:29 Spotlight on Rebellious Foods: Winning with Plant-based Chicken Nuggets
00:13:50 The Evolving Landscape of Cultivated Meat and Plant-based Alternatives
00:16:25 A Glimpse into the Future: Rising Trends in Cultivated and Plant-based Foods
00:22:29 Biotech in Everyday Life: Synthetic Biology Picnic Experience
00:28:04 Tackling Challenges: Using Gene Drives Against Lantern Flies
Episode Links:
Chicken nugs
Synbio definition
Call or Text the Grow Everything Hotline: +1 804-505-5553
Have a question or comment? Message us here:
Instagram / TikTok / Twitter / LinkedIn / Youtube / GrowEverything website
Email: groweverything@messaginglab.com
Support here: Patreon
Music by: Nihilore
Production by: Amplafy Media


