Unblinded: A Clinical Trial Podcast

The Unstuck Industry: A New Equitable Model for Pharma

Unblinded: A Clinical Trial Podcast

Show Notes

Brian Johnson, former head of R&D technology at Takeda, now consultant, shares his unique perspective on a topic that’s top-of-mind for many: how do you introduce new technologies and processes without alienating the people who need them most?

He and Manny also tackle the critical issue of health equity, examining how technology can help diversify clinical trials and, in turn, create a more equitable future for all. Join us as we explore the business case for change and the crucial steps needed to unstick the industry from its current trajectory.

More from Unblinded: A Clinical Trial Podcast

Oct 13, 2026

Manny is joined by guest Jack Evans, VP Europe at Civia Health, to discuss the operational realities, systemic burdens, and collaborative opportunities between clinical trial sponsors, CROs, and research sites. Jack highlights the challenges of setting up a research site in Europe, and what they need from sponsors to help make clinical trials more efficient.

Sep 23, 2026

In this episode Danielle Drachmann, CEO of Ketotic Hypoglycemia International, and Senior Patient Partnering Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific, explains how lived experience can – and should – reshape clinical research from day one. Danielle shares her powerful personal journey from kindergarten teacher to founder of a global rare disease organization after fighting for answers for her children.

Aug 19, 2026

In this episode, Novo Nordisk’s Rhona O'Donnell and Ibrahim Kamstrup-Akkaoui explore how the combination of open source tools and AI is reshaping the future of clinical data management. From the creation of OpenStudyBuilder to the potential of Veeva’s agentic AI layer, they discuss breaking down traditional industry silos to get treatments to patients faster.

Apr 15, 2026

In this episode of Unblinded, host Manny Vazquez is joined by Leianne Ebert, Head of Data Operations at Alcon, and co-host John Acampado, Senior Director of Clinical Strategy for Veeva MedTech. Together, they explore the regulatory differences between pharma and medical device trials, data standards, and the industry’s digital maturity. Leianne and John also provide a reality check on AI readiness, debating the "deep pockets, short arms" mentality of the industry, and end with a call to action for systemic technology adoption.

Mar 5, 2026

Joel White, owner of Marketcap Consulting, together with Veeva’s Chris Kreitel, joins Manny to discuss why the next era of clinical trial outsourcing will be defined by technology integration and economic agility. They debate whether CROs are the ultimate masters of integrating tech, and the role of small biotechs as growth drivers in the market.

See all episodes →