Shownotes
Want to surround yourself with women who elevate you?
Introduction:
- Join us for an inspiring conversation with Maria Soloveychik, the founder of SyntheX, Inc., a groundbreaking biotech firm revolutionizing drug discovery.
From Scientist to Entrepreneur:
- Maria shares her unexpected journey from a scientist in Toronto to founding SyntheX, Inc. Learn how an accelerator program in San Francisco became the catalyst for her leap into entrepreneurship.
Building a Therapeutics Company:
- Discover the core idea behind Synthetic – engineering cells for efficient drug discovery. Maria emphasizes the challenges of starting from scratch and highlights the importance of perseverance.
Collaborating with Big Pharma:
- Explore SyntheX's collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb and the journey from an incubator to partnering with a major pharmaceutical company. Maria sheds light on the validation and challenges of working with established players.
Navigating the Funding Landscape:
- Maria reflects on the challenges of fundraising as an outsider in the biotech field. Discuss the biases faced by female founders and the importance of focusing on substance rather than vanity metrics.
Challenges and Resilience:
- Uncover the unexpected stress points in running a biotech firm, from managing bank collapses to dealing with the pressure of constant innovation. Maria shares insights into maintaining resilience and mental well-being.
Balancing Work and Life:
- As a founder, Maria discusses the struggle to balance work and personal life. She shares strategies for managing stress, the importance of delegation, and the mental games played to tackle challenging tasks.
Overcoming Preconceptions and Dreaming Big:
- Maria encourages women entrepreneurs not to limit themselves based on preconceptions. Learn how thinking bigger and being available for opportunities can lead to unexpected success.
Creating Genuine Connections:
- Discover the significance of networking, attending events, and giving talks to create genuine connections in the industry. Maria emphasizes the role of visibility in building relationships that can contribute to future success.
Final Words of Wisdom:
- In her parting advice, Maria encourages entrepreneurs to put themselves out there, create their own luck, and dream beyond perceived limitations.
Don't miss the chance to be inspired by her incredible story and make a difference in the world.
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