This week I spoke with Jon Hu, CEO and co-founder of Pepper Bio, about his journey from pharma consulting and venture capital to founding a tech-enabled biotech company. Pepper Bio created an AI and machine learning platform accelerating drug discovery for untreatable diseases. In addition to the platform, Pepper is currently navigating their asset for liver cancer into phase 2 clinical trials. Jon highlighted the differences between tech and biotech, emphasizing the importance of dreaming big and aligning vision with employees. He shared insights on the importance of hiring, learning to learn, and overcoming challenges in transitioning from tech-enabled discovery to drug development. We also discussed Pepper Bio's computational platform, long-term strategy, and their Series A fundraising to support their clinical trial efforts. Jon’s personal story of family health challenges driving his passion for biotech underscored the company's mission to transform patient care.

• Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
• Get Jon's recommended book! What Do You Do With an Idea? New York Times best seller
• Learn more about Pepper Bio
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00:00 Introduction to John Hu and Pepper Bio

00:54 John's Early Aspirations and Career Path

02:27 Founding Pepper Bio and Its Mission

05:15 Tech vs. Biotech: Ambitions and Challenges

10:42 Project Optimist and Pepper's Role

11:53 Pepper's Computational Platform and Future Goals

16:14 Navigating the Biotech Industry and Hiring Strategies

33:35 Personal Motivations and Future Aspirations

36:03 Book Recommendations and Closing Remarks