Episode 114: The killing of George Floyd, the drug industry's response, and what comes next

The killing of George Floyd at the hands of a white Minneapolis police officer has brutally underlined the systemic racism that informs policing, housing, education, and health care in the U.S. This podcast covers the world of biotech, which, like every facet of our society, is affected by racism and inequality. So, first, we talk about how the drug industry has responded to Floyd’s killing and what that response means. Then, we're joined for a conversation with longtime biotech executive Tony Coles, who is also a founding member of the Black Economic Alliance, a group of business leaders who raise money for candidates and causes. We talk about why Floyd's killing sparked global action, the relative value of public statements, and what business leaders can do to combat racism.