Favorable Environments

Recorded in-person in Minneapolis, this conversation reflects the kind of cross-regional connections shaping the Midwest’s medtech and biotech ecosystem.In this episode of Favorable Environments, Tung Nguyen speaks with Ian Weimer, Founder of Weimer Analytics, about bringing real world evidence and advanced health economics analytics to small and medium-sized medtech and biotech companies. Ian brings experience from a boutique healthcare consultancy where he contributed to 16 peer-reviewed publications and regulatory submissions for Fortune 500 pharma and medical device firms—to launching his own firm in 2025 to fill a clear gap: making sophisticated, tailored evidence generation accessible beyond large incumbents.The conversation explores how real world evidence (RWE) is helping early-stage innovators quantify disease burden, demonstrate product value before launch, and attract investment in a challenging funding environment. Ian also breaks down the FDA’s December 2025 guidance update, which is far more accepting of de-identified real world data for initial approvals—a shift he expects to accelerate adoption across early-stage companies. He also discusses how AI is acting as a multiplier for smaller firms, turning months-long analyses into work that can now be completed in hours or days.This episode offers a grounded look at how real-world evidence and data science are leveling the playing field for the next generation of healthcare innovators—and why the Midwest continues to create favorable environments for evidence-based entrepreneurship and commercialization.To stay connected with the USD Discovery District, follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/usd-discovery-district and discover opportunities at usddiscovery.com, including leasing at Building 1 for research, diagnostics, and advanced manufacturing.Favorable Environments is presented by the USD Discovery District and supported by South Dakota First Capital, working to expand access to capital for companies building the future of bioscience in the region.Disclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.

In this episode of Favorable Environments, Tung Nguyen speaks with Dr. Patrick Rynn Hogan, DHA, author of the newly published book The Silent Pandemic of Antimicrobial Resistance: Why the Next Global Health Crisis Has Already Begun and CEO of Prescient Healthcare, about one of the most urgent yet under-recognized threats to modern health. Dr. Hogan explains antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a system-level failure spanning healthcare infrastructure, agricultural practices, supply chains, and innovation pipelines—where once-treatable infections like UTIs, sepsis, and minor wounds now contribute to hundreds of thousands of deaths annually as microbes evolve beyond standard antibiotics.The conversation delves into key drivers of AMR: widespread antibiotic use in livestock (accounting for about 60% of global consumption), leading to environmental dissemination through soil, water, and food systems; post-COVID strains on rural hospitals and access gaps in states like South Dakota; and the stagnation in new antibiotic development due to limited profitability and reimbursement challenges. Dr. Hogan highlights South Dakota's moderate-risk profile—strong statewide reporting to the CDC and proactive health systems balanced against higher prescribing rates and rural geography—and the interconnected ecosystem risks amplified in agriculture-heavy regions.Drawing on historical pandemics and today's hyper-connected world, he stresses preparedness through everyday actions (completing full antibiotic courses, rigorous hygiene, proper food handling), better surveillance and transparent reporting (often masked under sepsis or UTI labels), and accelerated innovation in therapeutics, data tools, and AI for analysis and decision support. Dr. Hogan views AMR as a ripe field for disruption, calling for pharma investment, improved communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration to avert a future where resistant infections rival cancer in mortality.This episode offers a grounded look at why awareness and proactive steps matter now—as populations age and vulnerabilities rise—and how South Dakota's tight networks, statewide support, and emerging bioscience ecosystem create scalable advantages for addressing rural health challenges, advancing diagnostics and treatments, and building long-term resilience. The discussion underscores the USD Discovery District's role as a conduit for university research, private sector ambition, and community impact in fostering favorable environments for mission-driven innovation in biotech, medtech, and global health security.To stay connected with the USD Discovery District, follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/usd-discovery-district and discover opportunities at usddiscovery.com, including leasing at Building 1 for research, diagnostics, and advanced manufacturing.Favorable Environments is presented by the USD Discovery District and supported by South Dakota First Capital, working to expand access to capital for companies building the future of bioscience in the region.Disclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.

In this episode of Favorable Environments, Host Tung Nguyen speaks with fellow members of theUSD Discovery District leadership team—Ryan, President; Marc, Director of Biotech Development; in a reflective discussion—about the organization's first operational year since taking possession of Building 1 in January 2025. The team shares candid insights into the milestones achieved, the challenges navigated, and the strategic pivots that have positioned the District as a purpose-built hub for bioscience and life sciences innovation in Sioux Falls.The conversation explores the pragmatic realities of building a research park from the ground up: from refining tenant profiles to prioritize research-oriented companies, to developing a resource-mapping platform that connects prospects with statewide assets in academia, healthcare, and industry. Ryan, Marc, and Tung reflect on lessons from early tenant engagements, the value of an abundance mindset in partnerships, and how South Dakota's low-density networks and statewide support create scalable advantages for commercialization and long-term growth. They discuss the importance of relationships as infrastructure—beyond buildings—and how collaborations with entities such as the University of South Dakota, Forward Sioux Falls, and regional healthcare systems drive momentum.Later in the episode, the team addresses the cultural evolution of a small, agile group, the need for disciplined filtering of opportunities, and the vision for future phases, including alpha and beta testing of the resource-mapping tool and its potential as a standalone platform. The discussion highlights why the USD Discovery District serves as a conduit between university research, private sector ambition, and community impact, advancing applied research, talent pipelines, and bioscience scaling in a region built for resilience.This episode provides an inside look at the disciplined progress behind South Dakota's emerging bioscience campus and why the USD Discovery District continues to create favorable environments for mission-driven innovation, partnerships, and economic impact.To stay connected with the USD Discovery District, follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/usd-discovery-district and discover opportunities at usddiscovery.com, including leasing at Building 1 for research, diagnostics, and advanced manufacturing.Favorable Environments is presented by the USD Discovery District and supported by South Dakota First Capital, working to expand access to capital for companies building the future of bioscience in the region.

In this episode of Favorable Environments, Tung Nguyen speaks with Dr. Kristina Harris Jackson, Director of Research at OmegaQuant Analytics, about how a science-first company in Sioux Falls became a global leader in fatty acid testing. Kristina shares the story of OmegaQuant’s founding, the research legacy of Dr. Bill Harris, and how the company grew from an academic idea into one of the most trusted diagnostic tools in the world. With more than a million Omega-3 Index tests performed, partnerships with universities and clinics across more than seventy countries, and a CLIA-certified laboratory headquartered in South Dakota, OmegaQuant has brought evidence-based nutritional analytics into everyday life in a way few companies have achieved.The conversation explores why fatty acid testing matters, what the Omega-3 Index can reveal about long-term health, and how a simple dried blood spot sample opened the door to global adoption. Kristina reflects on the early days of building a diagnostics business, the challenge of translating complex research into accessible products, and the questions customers ask when they want to understand whether their lifestyle choices are making a real impact. Kristina talks about affordability, accuracy, and the emotional dimension of helping people understand their own physiology through personalized data rather than guesswork.Later in the episode, producer Ngoc Thach reflects on how she first met Kristina through her TEDx Sioux Falls presentation, a moment that highlighted Kristina’s ability to bridge scientific rigor with clear, human storytelling. Kristina shares what it means to communicate science to audiences encountering this information for the first time, and why public understanding is now central to advancing nutrition and health research.This episode offers a close look at how a South Dakota company is shaping the future of personalized nutrition and why the region’s growing bioscience ecosystem continues to create favorable environments for science translation and global impact.To learn more about OmegaQuant, visit omegaquant.com and explore their educational resources, including OmegaQuant University and the OmegaMatters Broadcasts. To stay connected with the USD Discovery District, follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/usd-discovery-district and discover opportunities at usddiscovery.com, including leasing at Building 1 for research, diagnostics, and advanced manufacturing.Favorable Environments is presented by the USD Discovery District and supported by South Dakota First Capital, working to expand access to capital for companies building the future of bioscience in the region.Host: Tung Nguyen, Thel ConsultingAudio/Video: Skye Giebink, Skye VideoProducer: Ngoc Thach, Mix MakerDisclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.

Today, we sit down with Fabrice Paublant, CEO of Orixha, whose 30-year career in pharmaceuticals and consulting drives his passion for transformative medical innovation. In this episode, Mr. Paublant dives into Orixha’s pioneering liquid ventilator for post-cardiac arrest care, sharing insights on leadership, mentorship, and strategic cash management.The content in this episode is not financial or legal advice. Please consult a qualified professional for investment guidance.This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District and South Dakota First Capital. “I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.EPISODE LINKS:Orixha: https://orixha.comUSD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/South Dakota First Capital: https://www.southdakotafirst.com/Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/USD Discovery District Leasing: https://www.usddiscovery.com/leaseDisclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.

Join the USD Discovery District for an insightful conversation with Wassim Laroussi, founder of The Biotech Investor YouTube channel. From his early days as a pharmacy technician to a career in software development, Larussi’s passion for finance led him to launch his channel in 2020. He now delivers in-depth analyses of public biotech companies, their groundbreaking innovations, and stock performance in the public markets. Discover his unique journey and expert insights into biotech investing.This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District and South Dakota First Capital. “I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.EPISODE LINKS:USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/South Dakota First Capital: https://www.southdakotafirst.com/Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/USD Discovery District Leasing: https://www.usddiscovery.com/leaseDisclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.

This episode features a conversation with Bill Betten.Bill Betten is an experienced engineer and entrepreneur in the medtech industry, currently serving as President of Betten System Solutions and Director of Solutions – Medtech at S3 Connected Health. We met Bill at the Medical Alley Annual Summit, where he shared his journey from Redfield, South Dakota to leading product development for major medical device companies.Betten Systems Solutions focuses on early-stage product development and commercialization in the medical and life sciences industries. With leadership roles at companies like Devicix (now Nortech Systems), Logic PD, Nonin Medical, Honeywell, and 3M, Bill has played a key role in developing technologies like hearing aids, telemedicine solutions, and mobile health devices. His expertise spans startups to Fortune 100 companies.In addition to his consulting work, Bill actively mentors entrepreneurs through commercialization programs at South Dakota Mines and the University of Minnesota.This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District. “I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.EPISODE LINKS:USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/USD Discovery District Leasing: https://www.usddiscovery.com/leaseDisclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.

This episode features a conversation with Dr. Neel Patel.In 2016, Dr. Neel Patel and his co-founder, Dr. Shaolin Liang, united with a clear mission – to empower people to take control of their health.Previously as Doctor, Dr. Neel Patel was frustrated with the inefficiencies of hospital blood testing and sought a solution to accelerate the testing process. This was inspired by his co-founder, Dr. Shaolin Liang, who wanted to ensure his newborn was receiving proper nutrients and aimed to bring lab testing into the home using his technical expertise. Together, they worked towards a shared goal: bringing hospital-grade lab testing to the point-of-use, enhancing accessibility to molecular testing and optimizing health and sickness prevention. More specifically, they have developed a point-of-care therapeutic drug monitoring device which measures medication concentration levels to improve drug treatment outcomes.Today, ZiO Health is based in London with a location in San Fransico, CA. The company’s’ vision is to democratize medical testing and health data, making it accessible for everyone to make meaningful changes to their daily routines and improve their overall well-being.This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District. “I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.EPISODE LINKS:USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/ZiO Health: https://www.zio-health.com/USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/leaseDisclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.

In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Max Ostermeier. He is the Co-Founder and CEO of ImplantData Ophthalmic Products and has an impressive background, transitioning from a career in finance to becoming a serial entrepreneur in the medtech industry. His innovative spirit and dedication to improving patient care have led to the development of several groundbreaking technologies. Through his ventures, he has a successful track record of regulatory approval, fundraising, and strategic exits through acquisition.Today, Max’s work through ImplantData Opthalmic Products is focused on developing an implantable sensor for continuous monitoring of intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients. Implandata Ophthalmic Products GmbH is a digital health company, based in Hannover Germany. The company’s mission is to address a vastly underserved need in care of glaucoma patients, by combining innovative medical technology with state of the art information technology.This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District. “I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.EPISODE LINKS:USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/Disclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.

This episode features a conversation with Lisa MacFadden, PhD.Lisa is a Professor of Practice in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Director of Biomechanics Research at the University of South Dakota. With a career spanning academia and applied science, she explores the complexities of human movement to optimize performance, reduce injury risks, and enhance rehabilitation. Her interdisciplinary approach involves collaborations across medicine, kinesiology, therapy, psychology, and computer science. Previously, she led the Sanford Sports Science Institute and now focuses on integrating AI and computer vision into biomechanics, making advanced motion-capture technology more accessible. Dr. MacFadden is also dedicated to STEM outreach, inspiring students to pursue careers in biomechanics through initiatives like the Biomechanics Initiative. Today, her work continues to advance the field, combining advanced technology with a passion for teaching and mentoring.This podcast is sponsored by the USD Discovery District. “I am mindful that scientific achievement is rooted in the past, is cultivated to full stature by many contemporaries and flourishes only in favorable environment.” - Ernest O. Lawrence.Ernest Lawrence was an American nuclear physicist and the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1939 for his invention of the cyclotron. He was born and educated in South Dakota. In 2023, he was portrayed in the Christopher Nolan film, 'Oppenheimer,' which explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, a project to which Lawrence significantly contributed.EPISODE LINKS:USD Discovery District: https://www.usddiscovery.com/Favorable Environments: https://favorableenvironments.com/Disclaimer: This podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not represent the provision of medical, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the rendering of medical advice. Users access and utilize the information and linked materials at their own discretion and risk. The material presented herein is not intended as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals should neither ignore nor postpone seeking qualified medical guidance for any health concerns and are strongly encouraged to consult their healthcare providers promptly for personalized evaluation and care.