Statistically Speaking a CK Pharma Solutions Podcast

8/6/2025

Suzanne Vyvoda brings decades of clinical operations expertise and joins us to share what she’s learned about running trials that actually work. In this episode, we dive into her career journey, pivotal leadership moments, and the lessons she applies across every phase of clinical development. From first hires to fractional leadership, cross-functional alignment to digital tools, Suzanne offers a clear and thoughtful perspective on what it takes to lead clinical operations with impact. Whether you're building a team, stepping into your first leadership role, or looking to avoid the most common trial pitfalls, this conversation is full of practical insights and candid reflections you won’t want to miss.

6/30/2025

In this episode of Statistically Speaking, we sit down with Sheila, whose inspiring career journey has taken her from hands-on statistical programming and clinical data management to the executive suite as VP at a global CRO and now to cofounding her own company, AgileDM. Sheila shares how she navigated industry shifts, pivotal career decisions, and the transition to entrepreneurship. We discuss the evolution of clinical data management, balancing quality with innovation, preparing the next generation of CDM talent, and how clear communication and networking can shape your career trajectory. If you’re an aspiring leader in biometrics, considering your own venture, or just looking for real-world insights from someone who’s done it all, you’ll want to hear this. Tune in for practical advice, lessons learned, and Sheila’s perspective on building a fulfilling, impactful career in clinical research.

5/9/2025

In this episode, we sit down with Todd Case, Senior Director of Statistical Programming at Vertex Pharmaceuticals, to explore how the role of a statistical programmer is evolving in today’s biotech landscape. Todd shares his journey from early-career programmer to senior leadership, reflects on nearly a decade at Vertex, and offers practical advice for those looking to break into or grow within the field. We dive into the impact of new technologies, the rise of machine learning, what he looks for when hiring, and how networking can be a game-changer in your career. Whether you're a student, job seeker, or seasoned professional in biometrics, this episode is full of actionable insights.

4/4/2025

This week, it’s just us — Caroline & Kholoud — your friendly life science recruiters, pulling back the curtain on all things hiring. No guests, no filters. We're diving into what really happens behind the scenes when you apply for a job, how interviews are decided, what makes a candidate stand out (or not), and how we navigate the job market from our side of the table. Whether you're job hunting, hiring, or just curious — this one’s packed with real talk, recruiter insights, and a few stories you won’t hear anywhere else.

3/5/2025

In this episode of Statistically Speaking, Dr. Ilfra Loher, Director of Biostatistics at ClinChoice, shares her expertise on the evolving field of biostatistics. Tune in as Dr. Loher discusses emerging trends, essential skills for job seekers, and tips for recent grads looking to break into the industry. She also dives into the growing influence of AI in hiring and what it means for job seekers. Whether you're starting your career or looking to level up, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone in the biostatistics field. Stream now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts!

2/4/2025

In this episode of Statistically Speaking, Hank Dennis, Senior Manager of Clinical Data Coding at Pfizer, dives deep into several crucial topics within the clinical trials industry. He discusses career growth for those in technical roles who want to avoid management paths, the transformative role of AI in reshaping clinical trials, and the growing trend of making faster, data-driven decisions to enhance trial efficiency. Hank also shares insights on working at a CRO versus a sponsor, the debate over remote vs. onsite work, and the merging of clinical data coding roles into clinical data management. Plus, get valuable advice from a hiring manager's perspective, tips on navigating mergers and acquisitions, and the power of networking with the right recruiters.

1/18/2025

We’re launching our Industry Leaders Insights series, starting with an inspiring conversation with Amanda Langel, co-founder of Better Clinical Trial and former Director of Operations in the CRO space. Amanda shares her journey in clinical data management, advice for early-career professionals, insights on what makes candidates stand out, and more. Don’t miss this engaging discussion with one of the industry’s thought leaders.