What does it take to turn a scientific discovery into a treatment that changes lives? On this episode of Believe in Progress, the podcast brought to you by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Foundation, host Mitch Stoller talks with Dr. William Pao, an esteemed physician-scientist, executive leader, and author of the new book Breakthrough: The Quest for Life-Changing Medicines.

Dr. Pao is the Chief Executive Officer of Revelio Therapeutics, Inc. and previously led Global Product Development at Pfizer, overseeing the clinical development and regulatory advancement of innovative medicines. With a distinguished career spanning leadership roles at Pfizer, Roche, and Vanderbilt University, Dr. Pao has been at the forefront of oncology research and drug development.

In this episode, we explore:

• The complex journey of drug discovery and the biggest challenges scientists face
• The unexpected twists and groundbreaking moments behind revolutionary treatments
• The role of collaboration and innovation in drug development
• The future of cancer research and how scientific advancements are shaping patient care
• The critical need for continued investment in cancer research

Dr. Pao’s work offers a rare glimpse into the process of creating lifesaving medicines, and his book Breakthrough takes readers behind the scenes of eight transformative treatments. Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, a scientist, or someone passionate about the future of medicine, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Episode Highlights:

• Dr. Pao’s journey – From academic research to leading global pharmaceutical development, how his career evolved to focus on oncology and lifesaving treatments
• The story behind Breakthrough – Why Dr. Pao wrote this book and what readers can learn about the real process of drug discovery
• The science of innovation – The unexpected challenges and pivotal moments that shape medical breakthroughs
• The future of cancer research – The biggest opportunities and challenges in developing next-generation therapies
• Collaboration & research – How scientists, regulators, and patients work together to bring treatments to market
• Why cancer research needs support – The importance of continued investment in research to drive progress in oncology and beyond

Take Action: How You Can Support Cancer Research

• Read Dr. Pao’s book: Breakthrough: The Quest for Life-Changing Medicines – A must-read for anyone interested in the future of medicine
• Donate to the AACR: Support groundbreaking cancer research by visiting AACR.org/Donate  
• Share this episode: Help spread awareness about the power of research and innovation in the fight against cancer
• Subscribe & listen: Find Believe in Progress on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts

Cancer Research Saves Lives®

Production Credits

• Host: Mitch Stoller
• Guest: Dr. William Pao, MD, PhD
• Executive Producer: Anthony Lopes
• Executive Producer: Michael Leary
• Associate Producer: Heather Holland
• Director: Anthony Lopes
• Creative Director/Director of Photography: Michael Leary
• Editor: Michael Leary

Believe in Progress is produced by CollegeCast LLC. 

Check out more episodes: AACR.org/BelieveInProgress