Ep1 - From Dentistry to Non-Opioid Pain Solutions: A Journey of Innovation with Steven Fox

The opioid crisis is the worst healthcare disaster in American history, yet for millions suffering from chronic pain, the only options are addiction or agony. What does it take to build a "Holy Grail" solution when there is no playbook? Steven Fox, a "rare kind of builder," joins us to discuss the high-stakes world of life science innovation, the art of surrounding yourself with "survivors," and why he believes he’s finally found the key to ending the opioid epidemic.Brief DescriptionIn this episode, Keith Willis sits down with Steven Fox, Chairman and Founder of Akelos Incorporated. From his roots as a cosmetic dentist to becoming an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Steven shares his 40-year journey of turning big ideas into public ventures.The conversation dives deep into the "three-dimensional chess" of biotech leadership: navigating the NIH grant system, building a world-class team of Nobel laureates without using headhunters, and the relentless tenacity required to move a non-opioid pain treatment toward FDA approval. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned executive, Steven’s "guerrilla warfare" approach to leadership offers a masterclass in survival and execution.Meet the Guest: Steven FoxSteven Fox is the Chairman and Founder of Akelos Inc., a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to solving the opioid crisis through non-addictive chronic pain treatments. A dentist by trade and a lifelong entrepreneur, Steven has:Developed 68 patents and raised over $75 million in capital.Taken a technology from the ADA public and placed products in 42,000 stores across America.Been awarded the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and the Medal of Freedom from members of the U.S. Senate.Assembled a powerhouse team featuring former heads of neuroscience from Merck, Pfizer, and Eli Lilly, alongside Nobel Prize winners.Key TakeawaysThe "Survival" Team: Why "jockeys" are just as important as the "horse," and why Steven prefers team members seasoned in survival over S&P 500 pedigree.Bridging the Gap: How 48 years of treating dental pain provided the clinical insight needed to tackle the global opioid crisis.Entrepreneurial Tenacity: The reality of the 5 AM to 9 PM grind and why you have to be willing to "get up off the mat" repeatedly.The Patent Moat: The strategic (and sometimes costly) art of building intellectual property protection around groundbreaking science.Remaining "Sensationally Curious": Steven’s #1 piece of advice for anyone looking to innovate in a crowded marketplace.Connect with StevenEmail: drstevefox@akelosinc.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drstevefox/Connect with KeithEmail: kwillis@coremanagementtraining.com  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/keithawillis/