In this episode of NGBi Lab, host Jim Wilson welcomes Akeem Gardner, CEO and Founder of Canurta Therapeutics. Discover how Akeem transitioned from law school and farming into the biotech space to build a company developing botanical drug candidates for neurodegenerative diseases, with a lead program targeting ALS.

From his unconventional entrepreneurial journey and the shift from ingredient supplier to full biotechnology company, to the stark financial realities of funding clinical trials, this conversation dives deep into the conviction and risk required to innovate in the life sciences sector.

Tune in to learn about his vision for Canurta Therapeutics and what it really takes to run a startup.

In this episode, host Jim Wilson sits down with the team at McCallum-Sather Architects to explore their forward-thinking approach to sustainable, integrated design in the life sciences sector. Mary Georgious and Liam Brown share how their architectural and mechanical engineering expertise come together to shape high-performance lab environments. They discuss the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and user-centered planning—especially when transforming aging facilities into modern research spaces. Their work on the University of Waterloo’s Earth Sciences and Chemistry complex offers a compelling look at the opportunities and challenges of renovating existing buildings to meet today’s scientific and environmental standards.

Dr. Amol Deshpande shares his journey from a Toronto upbringing to a diverse career spanning chronic pain medicine, emergency and cardiac care, healthcare consulting, and venture support at MaRS. He reflects on key experiences at UHN, WSIB, Toronto Rehab, and AIoT Health, as well as launching his podcast Reboot Health.

Amol also discusses the state of Canadian life sciences, the need for genuine collaboration, and the importance of clear national vision. He closes with personal reflections on fatherhood and what’s next in his mission to improve healthcare and innovation in Canada.