In this archived episode of NGBiLab, host Jim Wilson revisits his conversation with Bronwyn Bridges, CEO and co-founder of PragmaClin, a pioneering startup from St. John's, Newfoundland. PragmaClin's innovative digital tool, Prims, is designed to enhance the assessment of Parkinson's disease, offering more objective and efficient pathways for neurological care. Bronwyn reflects on her journey, the hurdles overcome, and the serendipitous moments that shaped PragmaClin's mission to make healthcare more accessible.
In this throwback episode of NGBiLab, host Jim Wilson sits down with Kevin Neal and Jean-Francois Mio from Tatum Bioscience in Sherbrooke, Quebec. Discover how they are revolutionizing cancer treatment by programming bacteria to become cancer-fighting drugs. Learn about their journey, the challenges they face, and their vision for the future of immunotherapy. Tune in to explore the cutting-edge innovations in Canada's life sciences sector.
This week, we’re throwing it back to when Jim connected with Sydney Robinson, CEO and co-founder of Vessl Prosthetics, based in London, Ontario. Sydney and her team are pioneering next-generation prosthetic solutions specifically designed for below-knee amputees. Their innovative technology features automatic adjustments that ensure a consistently comfortable fit—greatly improving quality of life for many.
In 2025, Vessl Prosthetics made significant strides, securing key funding and expanding their impact in the prosthetics field. Their journey perfectly exemplifies the spirit of innovation and collaboration that NGBi is proud to amplify—showcasing real-world breakthroughs happening across Canada’s life sciences ecosystem.
Tune in to hear their inspiring story, and stay connected for more fresh conversations coming soon!
In this special edition, we revisit the inspiring journey of Serena Mandla and Carla Spina, co-founders of NOA Therapeutics. Learn how these innovators are transforming the treatment of complex inflammatory diseases with their multimodal therapeutics. From their serendipitous meeting to overcoming challenges as female founders, Serena and Carla share their passion for innovation, collaboration, and making a meaningful impact in the life sciences community.
This archived episode is a perfect preview of the visionary leaders and groundbreaking ideas you’ll encounter at the NGBi2025 Summit. Dive in for an insightful conversation about the future of healthcare and the people shaping it.
Join us as we dive into the world of medical innovation with Dr. Rob Arntfield, founder of Deep Breathe. Discover how AI is revolutionizing portable ultrasound technology, making diagnostics more accessible in both military and healthcare settings. Dr. Arntfield shares insights from his journey as an ICU physician and entrepreneur, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of bringing cutting-edge technology to life. Tune in to explore the future of medical diagnostics and the impact of AI on healthcare. #MedicalInnovation #AI #Healthcare
In this episode, we delve into the complex world of diagnosing endometriosis with Lauren Foster, Professor Emeritus at McMaster University and co-founder of Afynia Labs. Discover the challenges faced by women in obtaining a diagnosis, often taking 10-12 years and multiple doctor visits. Lauren shares insights into the innovative microRNA-based blood test developed by Afynia Labs, aiming to provide a quicker, non-invasive diagnostic solution. Join us as we explore the journey of bringing this groundbreaking test to market and its potential to transform women's healthcare.
In this episode, we delve into the groundbreaking work of Dr. Jeffrey Coull and his team at Grey Matter Neurosciences. Discover how their pioneering ultrasound technology aims to enhance cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments. Join us as we explore the potential of this revolutionary approach to brain stimulation, offering hope for improved memory, attention, and language fluency. Tune in to learn about the future of cognitive enhancement and the exciting developments in neurotechnology. Plus, don't miss Dr. Coull at NGBi25, happening Tuesday, October 21st, in Hamilton, Ontario.
Join host Jim Wilson as he sits down with Nabanita Nawar, co-founder of HDAX Therapeutics, to explore the groundbreaking work in targeting disease driver proteins for novel medicine development. Discover the journey from academic research to entrepreneurial success, and learn about the innovative two-side binding mechanism that could revolutionize treatments for neuropathies and cardiometabolic diseases. Tune in for insights into the challenges and triumphs of biotech entrepreneurship and the future of HDAX Therapeutics.
September 4th 2024 – This week we’re speaking with Carl Schubert of BioCache Lab Solutions based out of Mississauga, Ontario. BioCache exists to help hospitals manage and retain valuable biospecimens that hold insights into patients' health and disease progression, helping scientists with research. We’ll talk about the inception of BioCache, the importance of resilience and patience for entrepreneurs, and planning for things to take longer than expected.
BioCache Lab Solutions - biocache.com
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com
July 18th 2024 – Our guest today is Dr. Alison Smith who is Co-Founder and Chief Scientist of Roga Life based out of Toronto, Ontario and Los Angeles, California. Alison and her co-founder Ami Lebendiker have created a wellness device that employs neural stimulation to reduce anxiety, stress and burnout.
Roga: rogalife.com
Roga Instagram: @roga.life
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com
July 11th 2024 – Joining us this week is Jamie Harsevoort, CEO of Launchit Solutions based in Hamilton, Ontario. Formerly known as LaunchIt Ventures, Launchit Solutions is a venture studio dedicated to commercializing healthcare innovations by bringing together a team of experienced professionals to support and empower innovators and entrepreneurs.
Launchit Solutions: launchitventures.com
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com
July 4th 2024 – Join us this week as we feature Stephanie Willerth, Co-Founder and CEO of Axolotl Biosciences, based in Victoria, BC. Stephanie and her team specialize in 3D tissue printing and developing bioinks for neural and cardiac tissues. We’ll delve into the potential applications of 3D tissue printing in personalized medicine, the growth of this innovative field, and Stephanie's advice for entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses.
Axolotl Biosciences: axolotlbiosciences.com
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com
June 27th 2024 – Join us this week as we speak with Kevin Neil and Jean-François Millau from Tatum Bioscience in Sherbrooke, Quebec. Kevin and Jean-François are a part of a team that are ‘programming’ bacteria to turn them into cancer-fighting drugs and the work they are doing is cutting edge.
TATUM Bioscience: tatumbio.com
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com
June 20th 2024 – This week, we are excited to welcome Andrew Cordssen-David from HeadFirst, a company based in Kitchener, Ontario. Andrew and his team are pioneering the first-ever concussion detection system using a rapid test, akin to the Covid rapid tests.
HeadFirst: headfirstdx.com
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com
June 13th 2024 – Join us this week as we speak with Adam Forman of Synakis, based in Toronto, Ontario. Adam and his team are a part of Dr. Molly Shoichet's lab at the University of Toronto and are at the forefront of developing an innovative technology designed to significantly improve patient recovery following retinal detachment surgeries. This groundbreaking work has the potential to transform ophthalmic care and enhance the quality of life for countless individuals in Canada.
Synakis: synakis.ca
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com
June 6th 2024 – This week, we're deviating from our usual focus on promoting Canadian life science startups to speak with Ray Briscuso of AdvaMed about the MedTech Conference happening in Toronto from October 15th to 17th. The MedTech Conference is the world’s leading medical technology event, bringing together C-suite executives from around the globe. If you have a MedTech company in Canada, we encourage you to consider attending this event.
The MedTech Conference: themedtechconference.com
AdvaMed: advamed.org
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com
May 30th, 2024 – This week, we are thrilled to welcome Rachel Bartholomew, the founder and CEO of HyIvy in Waterloo, Ontario. Rachel is also the visionary behind FemTech Canada, an organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurs in women's health innovation. We will be speaking with Rachel about the story behind HyIvy and how FemTech is emerging as a crucial part of the next generation of healthcare.
HyIvy: hyivy.com
Femtech Canada: femtech.ca
Grand River Regional Cancer Centre: grhosp.com
Get Your Tickets to The NGBI Summit: nextgreatbigideas.com
Lab Occupier: laboccupier.com