Medical Affairs isn't a downstream function—it's the throughline connecting science, story, and strategy from development through commercialization. This episode features Howard Rutman, MD, MBA, Chief Medical Officer at Xalud Therapeutics and Peg Crowley-Nowick, PhD, MBA discussing the critical role of early Medical Affairs engagement. Key topics include how early Medical Affairs involvement speeds patient enrollment and data generation, qualities to seek in the first Medical Affairs hire, the value a lean team can bring to BioTech, and the importance of evidence plans that support physician and market access needs. The podcast emphasizes Medical Affairs as a continuous link from development to commercialization.

In this episode of Medical Affairs Unscripted, host Peg Crowley-Nowick talks with Shera Gruen, SVP of Strategy Consulting at Lumanity, about the power of collaboration between medical and commercial teams in pharma. Drawing on her 20 years of industry experience leading commercial teams, Shera shares lessons on aligning science with strategy, preparing for launch success, and managing uncertainty. From cross-functional teamwork to scenario planning and external partnerships, this conversation offers practical insights for anyone involved in bringing new therapies to market — and shows how collaboration can turn complex challenges into opportunities for impact.