A conversation with Hilary Schultz and William Heath from Persephoni BioPartners.
| Host |
Sam Kessel & Anastasia Janas
|
| Listen | Apple Podcasts Spotify |
| Watch | YouTube |
Summary
What happens after Nucleate? For many early-stage biotech founders, that’s where the real challenge begins—and that’s where Persephoni BioPartners comes in.
In this episode of the Nucleate Podcast, Hilary Schultz and Dr. William Heath share how their unique journeys from clinical medicine and pharmaceutical R&D to early-stage investing led them to co-found Persephoni Bio, a venture studio focused on transforming breakthrough science into scalable biotech companies.
Hilary and William reveal the most overlooked reasons biotech startups struggle, highlighting that success often hinges more on the team than the technology. They offer candid insights into IP strategy, founder dynamics, and patient-centered development, while also emphasizing the importance of resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset.
As Hilary Schultz shares a lesson every future founder should hear:
“If anything at all—get comfortable being uncomfortable. Reach out. Show up. You never know what seeds you're planting.”
For anyone navigating the next step after Nucleate, this episode offers practical guidance and inspiration for building biotech that lasts.
Show Notes
00.00 Introduction
03:40 Hilary discusses her early passion for healthcare and impact
07:07 William explains his journey into science, starting from childhood
14:12 Hilary's advice on making the most of Nucleate
16:45 William's perspective on Nucleate's value
26:09 Hilary explains the founding of Persephoni
28:56 William discusses the mission of supporting early-stage biotech
47:48 Discussion on IP strategies for startups
57:11 Technical challenges in biotech development
58:39 Importance of understanding patient needs
1:02:11 Advice for Nucleate Activator program graduates
1:05:00 Discussing entrepreneurial mindset and resilience
1:07:24 Embracing failure as a learning opportunity
1:10:47 Hilary and William discuss work-life balance
1:13:47 Importance of team dynamics in success
Links
Hilary's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-schultz-50b274a4/
William's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-heath-4468b020/
Persephoni BioPartners: https://www.linkedin.com/company/persephoni-biopartners/