In this episode of Research Renaissance, host Deborah Westphal speaks with Katie Pizzone, Senior Director of Philanthropy at the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF). They discuss the critical role of philanthropy in advancing Alzheimer's research, the groundbreaking venture philanthropy model that ADDF employs, and the innovative treatments and diagnostics shaping the future of Alzheimer’s care.
Katie shares her personal journey into philanthropy, her early experiences in healthcare fundraising, and how ADDF is working to accelerate translational science—bringing new diagnostics, treatments, and preventive solutions from research to real-world impact.
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of philanthropy and science, the growing field of precision medicine, and how collaboration is key to curing Alzheimer’s.
Key Topics Discussed:
✔️ The Power of Venture Philanthropy – How ADDF’s unique funding model bridges the gap between early research and real-world treatments.
✔️ From Research to Patient Impact – The challenges and breakthroughs in getting Alzheimer’s treatments to market.
✔️ New Frontiers in Alzheimer’s Science – The role of repurposed drugs, biomarkers, and combination therapies in future treatments.
✔️ The Importance of Early Diagnosis – Why diagnostics are critical for prevention and personalized medicine.
✔️ Diversity in Clinical Trials – Addressing the disparities in Alzheimer’s research and treatment development.
✔️ The Role of Relationships in Philanthropy – Why trust, collaboration, and long-term partnerships drive innovation.
✔️ The Future of Neurological Research – How AI, imaging, and other technological advancements are accelerating breakthroughs.
Quotable Moments:
🗣️ "100% of every donation goes directly to science, thanks to a transformative gift from the Lauder family." – Katie Pizzone
🗣️ "Philanthropy isn’t just about funding—it’s about relationships, trust, and championing the mission together."
🗣️ "The future of Alzheimer’s treatment is precision medicine, combination therapies, and prevention—just like in cancer."
Resources & Links:
🔗 Learn more about Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation: ALZdiscovery.org
📩 Contact Katie Pizzone: kpizzone@alzdiscovery.org
📚 Explore the latest in Alzheimer’s research funding and opportunities.
📢 Stay Connected:
🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Research Renaissance
🌐 Visit: TofflerTrust.org
📩 Join the conversation and explore funding opportunities in brain science research!
🎧 Listen Now & Discover How Philanthropy is Driving Breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s Treatment!
To learn more about the breakthroughs discussed in this episode and to support ongoing research, visit our website at tofflertrust.org.
Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.
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