Balancing The Future

If you haven’t heard of GLP-1s, you’ve almost certainly come across the brand names: Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. These drugs were originally developed to treat diabetes, but they’ve recently become household names thanks to their dramatic impact on weight loss. Beyond shedding pounds, early evidence also points to promising benefits for chronic kidney disease, certain liver conditions, and cardiovascular health. But with surging demand for GLP-1s driven by their weight-loss potential, there’s growing concern about access for those who rely on them for critical medical conditions. As supply chains stretch thin, the ripple effects are being felt in unexpected places, including the rise of gray and black markets offering questionable or counterfeit alternatives to meet unmet demand. In this episode of Balancing the Future, Micah and Chai are joined by Ben Locwin, Chief Scientist and Head of Clinical Services at Black Diamond Networks. Together, they unpack the meteoric rise of GLP-1s in popular culture and how platforms like TikTok and Instagram have helped fuel the frenzy. They also examine the darker undercurrents of that attention: underground sales, off-label usage, and inequities in access. One emerging issue is sustainability. Most GLP-1s are delivered via disposable, single-use pens or prefilled syringes, products that are difficult to recycle and often end up in landfills or as medical waste. As millions more people begin using these injectables, the environmental cost is becoming impossible to ignore. The reliance on needles also poses challenges for people who have a fear of injections or are unwilling to self-administer shots regularly, increasing pressure on pharmaceutical companies to fast-track the development of oral alternatives. Ben Locwin brings deep insight as a healthcare executive, medical scientist, TEDx speaker, and frequent contributor to outlets like The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and NPR. LINKS Ben Locwin on LinkedIn Black Diamond Networks Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions  Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on  LinkedIn Balancing The Future Podcast Website Micah Schweizer on  LinkedIn Chai Nussbaumer on LinkedIn SOURCES The GLP-1 journey: from discovery science to therapeutic impact – PubMed Central The Ozempic Effect: Everything You Need to Know About Medical Weight Loss - Columbia University Department of Surgery Adderall - Encyclopædia Britannica Early development history of Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA) - PubMed Central A Snapshot History of Botox - Dimensionz Injectables How to prevent gray market activities: A comprehensive checklist for pharmaceutical companies - Systech FDA Approves First Over-the-Counter Naloxone Nasal Spray – US. Food and Drug Administration Oral Insulin: The Rationale for This Approach and Current Developments - PubMed Central  ABOUT BALANCING THE FUTURE Join Micah Schweizer and new host Chai Nussbaumer on Balancing the Future as they dive into the innovations shaping our world. From the potential of hydrogen in powering a greener planet, to the rise of GLP-1s in weight loss, and the frontier of microbiome-based treatments, they explore the science that's transforming our lives. Each episode features in-depth conversations with scientists, communicators, and thought leaders pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. They also explore the impact these breakthroughs will have on a world in desperate need of sustainable solutions today. ABOUT METTLER TOLEDO LAB SOLUTIONS: In the fast-paced world of laboratory science, precision and efficiency are everything. That’s why METTLER TOLEDO is committed to delivering cutting-edge laboratory solutions that streamline workflows and enhance productivity. Our comprehensive portfolio includes high-performance instruments, intuitive software, automation technologies, consumables, accessories, and expert services—each engineered to meet the unique needs of industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, chemicals, biotechnology, and both QA/QC and R&D laboratories. From precision and analytical balances to advanced titrators, pH meters, density meters, refractometers, melting point instruments, and more, METTLER TOLEDO products are designed for accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. Our solutions empower laboratories to generate trusted results, maintain compliance, and ensure maximum uptime with our robust lifecycle services and automation capabilities.

In an age of constant scientific innovation and shifting public trust, how can science communication help bridge the gap between labs and lives? In this episode of Balancing the Future, Micah Schweizer and new co-host Chai Nussbaumer explore the powerful role that storytelling, emotion, and empathy play in making science more relatable and relevant to the public, grant funders and the media. They’re joined by science communications expert Rachael Vorwerk, whose journey began with a children’s book about the hippocampus and has evolved into shaping multimillion-dollar research campaigns and amplifying the voices of scientists. Together, they examine what makes scientific messaging effective. Whether it's explaining breakthroughs in broadband speed during a global pandemic or using virtual reality to bring abstract concepts to life, this episode explores some of the successes and failures of science communication. LINKSRachael Vorwerk on LinkedIn METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn Balancing The Future Podcast Website Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn Chai Nussbaumer on LinkedIn SOURCES  The Role of Black Pastors in Disseminating COVID-19 Vaccination Information to Black Communities in South Carolina – PubMed Central New campaign to support vaccine roll-out backed by social media companies and British institutions – Gov.uk Australia 'records fastest internet speed ever' – BBC World News New research centre to bring the world’s best measuring device out of the lab – RMIT University Genetically modified foods: safety, risks and public concerns—a review – PubMed Central Black Mirror: Bandersnatch – IMDB Seven Up! – IMDB  ABOUT BALANCING THE FUTURE Join Micah Schweizer and Chai Nussbaumer on Balancing the Future as they dive into the innovations shaping our world. From the potential of hydrogen in powering a greener planet, to the rise of GLP-1s in weight loss, and the frontier of microbiome-based treatments, they explore the science that's transforming our lives. Each episode features in-depth conversations with scientists, communicators, and thought leaders who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. They also explore the impact these breakthroughs will have on a world in desperate need of sustainable solutions today. ABOUT METTLER TOLEDO LAB SOLUTIONS: In the fast-paced world of laboratory science, precision and efficiency are everything. That’s why METTLER TOLEDO is committed to delivering cutting-edge laboratory solutions that streamline workflows and enhance productivity. Our comprehensive portfolio includes high-performance instruments, intuitive software, automation technologies, consumables, accessories, and expert services—each engineered to meet the unique needs of industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, chemicals, biotechnology, and both QA/QC and R&D laboratories. From precision and analytical balances to advanced titrators, pH meters, density meters, refractometers, melting point instruments, and more, METTLER TOLEDO products are designed for accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. Our solutions empower laboratories to generate trusted results, maintain compliance, and ensure maximum uptime with our robust lifecycle services and automation capabilities.

Science and technology are evolving faster than ever, and it's exciting to imagine where they might take us next. But which breakthroughs should we be paying attention to? Join Micah Schweizer and new host Chai Nussbaumer on Balancing the Future as they dive into the innovations shaping our world. From the potential of hydrogen in powering a greener planet, to the rise of GLP-1s in weight loss, and the frontier of microbiome-based treatments, they explore the science that's transforming our lives. Each episode features in-depth conversations with scientists, communicators, and thought leaders who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Season 2 of Balancing the Future is here - listen soon wherever you get your podcasts. About METTLER TOLEDO LAB SOLUTIONS: In the fast-paced world of laboratory science, precision and efficiency are everything. That’s why METTLER TOLEDO is committed to delivering cutting-edge laboratory solutions that streamline workflows and enhance productivity. Our comprehensive portfolio includes high-performance instruments, intuitive software, automation technologies, consumables, accessories, and expert services—each engineered to meet the unique needs of industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, chemicals, biotechnology, and both QA/QC and R&D laboratories. From precision and analytical balances to advanced titrators, pH meters, density meters, refractometers, melting point instruments, and more, METTLER TOLEDO products are designed for accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. Our solutions empower laboratories to generate trusted results, maintain compliance, and ensure maximum uptime with our robust lifecycle services and automation capabilities.  Balancing The Future Podcast Website

For over 200 years, the fundamental principles of battery technology have remained largely unchanged. However, the rapid growth of the electric vehicle market and the urgent need for efficient energy storage solutions for renewable sources have intensified efforts to push this technology further. In the final episode of Balancing the Future Season 1, Dana and Micah are joined by Simon Taylor, Segment Business Development Manager for Battery Technology at METTLER TOLEDO. Together, they delve into the cutting edge of battery innovation -exploring which battery technologies deserve our attention today, how we might double or even triple energy storage capacity in the near future, and the exciting possibility of battery-powered commercial flight. Simon also sheds light on the ethical concerns surrounding battery production, particularly the urgent need to reform the mining of raw materials like lithium, where child labor remains a critical issue. With a background in analytical chemistry, Simon shares insights into his successful transition from the lab to the business world, offering valuable lessons from his journey into battery technology. LINKS:  Simon Taylor on LinkedIn METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website  METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn  Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn  Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  SOURCES  Alessandro Volta Biography - Encyclopædia Britannica The Daniell Cell – ScienceDirect The (surprisingly long) history of electric vehicles - National Grid Green battery discovery turns trash into treasure – Northwestern University Renewables Supplied a Staggering 71% of Portugal’s Electricity in 2024 - The Renewable Energy Institute Portugal allocates funding for 500 MW of energy storage – PV Magazine 5 battery storage innovations helping us transition to a clean energy future – World Economic Forum What is a Megawatt (MW) and how many homes can it power? - PKNERGY The Top 5: Largest Battery Energy Storage Systems Worldwide - Saur Energy International The Volta Foundation Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.     Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.     From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability. 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with over 2.3 million cases diagnosed globally each year. While current detection methods like mammograms and self-exams are valuable, they’re not without limitations. But what if a simple blood test could revolutionize early detection and save countless lives?  In this episode of Balancing the Future, Dana and Micah are joined by Ivana Domljanovic, a researcher at the forefront of breast cancer detection technology. Together, they explore how biomarkers in blood could transform cancer screening and monitoring — integrating seamlessly into routine blood work to make testing more accessible, efficient, and frequent.  Ivana also shares her vision for the future, including the exciting potential for at-home testing kits that empower individuals to monitor their health from the comfort of their homes.   Ivana’s journey into this groundbreaking field began during her PhD studies, sparked by a professor focusing on breast cancer research. At the time, her primary interest was in using nanostructures and DNA origami to detect dysregulation in microRNAs.  LINKS:  Ivana Domljanovic on LinkedIn METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website  METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn  Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn  Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  SOURCES:WHO launches new roadmap on breast cancer - The World Health Organization History of Breast Cancer - Healthline A Brief History of Breast Cancer - National Library of Medicine Breast cancer: From the earliest times through to the end of the 20th century – ScienceDirect Size of the Nanoscale – Nanotechnology Initiative Accuracy of Mammograms - Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Limitations of Mammograms – American Cancer Society miRNAs as Biomarkers in Disease: Latest Findings Regarding Their Role in Diagnosis and Prognosis - National Library of Medicine Blood Testing for so-called MicroRNAs Can Detect Dementia - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases   Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.     Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.     From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability.

Antibiotics have saved millions of lives over the past century. However, their widespread use has led to a crisis – the evolution of antimicrobial resistance or AMR. According to a 2024 study, over a million people have been killed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria since 1990. This number is only set to rise over the coming decades.  In this episode of Balancing the Future, Ana Almeida joins Dana and Micah to explore how pollution in the water supply has contributed to this environmental and global health emergency.   Together they delve into how the prolific manufacture and use of antibiotics has accelerated the development of AMR and discover how there may already be scientists out there who can communicate the scale of this crisis to the public.  Ana Almeida is an environmental and microbiology consultant with 20 years of experience in academia, regulation, and industry.  LINKS: Ana Almeida’s Website Ana Almeida on LinkedIn METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  SOURCES Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance 1990–2021: a systematic analysis with forecasts to 2050 – The Lancet Penicillin: The War-Time Miracle Drug That Saved Millions – Institute of Biomedical Research Antibiotics: past, present and future – ScienceDirect WHO bacterial priority pathogens list, 2024 - World Health Organization (WHO) The Revised EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive – European Commission New rules for more thorough and cost-effective urban wastewater management enter into force – European Commission The Oil Pollution Act of 1990: A History of Spills and Legislation – The Office of Response and Restoration  Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.   Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.   From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability. 

Experiments conducted in space challenge scientists to rethink processes in entirely new ways. But what insights can these experiments offer - not only about the unique environment of space but also about our future on Earth?  In this episode of Balancing the Future, Dr. Magdalena Herová joins Dana and Micah to delve into the meticulous process of preparing experiments for the rigors of space. Together, they explore groundbreaking research happening above our planet and envision a future where humanity might establish a permanent residence among the stars.  Dr. Magdalena Herová, is a scientist at BIOTESC, an organization that acts on behalf of the European Space Agency. She joined BIOTESC after earning her PhD in molecular biology from the University of Zurich.  LINKS: Dr. Magdalena Herová on LinkedIn Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  SOURCES Image of Astronaut Michael Barrett Conducting an Experiment on the ISS – Universe Magazine Space Station 20th: First NASA Research on ISS – NASA.gov What Is Microgravity? - NASA.gov Groundbreaking Results from Space Station Science in 2023 – NASA.gov Crew Explores Satellites and Lunar Cement Mixing for Space Construction – NASA Blogs Growing Plants in Space – NASA.gov International Space Station Facts – NASA.gov  Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.   Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.   From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability.  

On this special holiday episode of Balancing the Future, Dana and Micah revisit some of their favorite moments that didn’t make it into earlier episodes. They also offer an exciting glimpse into what’s ahead, previewing some of the engaging conversations coming in 2025. Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.   Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.   From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability. LINKS: Could Cultivated Meat Revolutionize Diets of the Future? Transforming Drug Discovery: The Power of 3D Cell Cultures METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  SOURCES Why clothes are so hard to recycle – BBC Online  

Bioplastic technology has been around for decades, but how can it be effectively utilized and scaled to address the growing crisis of plastic waste we face today? In this episode of Balancing the Future, Dr. Manfred Zinn joins Dana and Micah to explore the cutting-edge applications of bioplastics, the implications of enhanced biodegradability, and the challenges and opportunities of scaling these solutions. Manfred is a Professor at the Institute of Life Sciences at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Sion, Switzerland. He earned his degree in Biotechnology and PhD at ETH Zurich, where he conducted pioneering research on nutrient-limited growth conditions in continuous cultures. Manfred further honed his expertise during two postdoctoral fellowships in the United States, focusing on biofilm research at the University of Tennessee and Harvard University. LINKS: Manfred Zinn on LinkedIn METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  SOURCES After bronze and iron, welcome to the plastic age, say scientists – The Guardian Online Microplastics: Are we facing a new health crisis – and what can be done about it? - The World Economic Forum Microplastics are in our bodies. How much do they harm us? - National Geographic EU Biorefinery Outlook to 2030 – The European Commission India's first bamboo-based biorefinery to start operations in March - Reuters CIB commits $277 million towards biorefinery and Canada’s largest electrolyzer - Canada Infrastructure Bank  Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.   Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.   From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability.

Brewing beer is both an art and a science, a tradition that has connected people for millennia. But what lies ahead for this age-old craft? In this episode of Balancing the Future, Chris Treanor sits down with Dana and Micah to delve into the science behind brewing, the intricate dance between innovation and business, and the pivotal role beer has played in shaping culture and community. Chris Treanor is the Head Brewer at Qrew Brew, a community-centric brewery in Switzerland. Qrew Brew is an initiative by QoQa, an innovative e-commerce platform. Before entering the industry, Chris trained as a biotechnologist at Dublin City University. He believes this education prepared him for a career in brewing, which combines elements of science, engineering, and business. LINKS: Chris Treanor on LinkedIn Qrew Brew Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.   Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.   From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability. 

Plant-based meat alternatives are having a moment, but do they represent a real shift towards a more sustainable diet? In this episode, Edwina Romanens dives into the technology that made the plant-based protein taste revolution possible, how consumer preference steers the industry, and what place plant-based meat alternatives might have in the diets of the future.  Edwina is the former lead biotechnology scientist at Planted, a leading plant-based food company in Switzerland specializing in meat alternatives. She now works as a biotech research manager at Givaudan, a flavor and fragrance manufacturer.  LINKS: Edwina Romanens on LinkedIn Givaudan Website Planted Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website  METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn  Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn  Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn   Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.   Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.   From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability. 

The use of 3D cell cultures is revolutionizing the drug testing industry, improving safety, accuracy and shaking up traditional methods. Could this technology take us into a future where we are able to fully personalize medicine, and maybe, even grow replacement organs?  In this episode of Balancing the Future, Dr. Jan Lichtenberg joins Dana and Micah to explore how 3D cell cultures are changing the trajectory of the drug development and testing landscape, the ethical implications of this technology, and how all this fits into the context of personalized medicine.   Dr. Jan Lichtenberg is CEO and co-founder of InSphero, a company that develops a wide range of 3D cell cultures and three-dimensional microtissues for drug development and screening.    LINKS: Jan Lichtenberg on LinkedIn InSphero Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.   Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.   From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability.

As diets evolve and arable farmland becomes increasingly less viable, could cultivated or lab-grown meat provide a solution to the pressing challenges we face on Earth and beyond?  In this episode of Balancing the Future, biotechnologist Steven Lang joins Dana and Micah to discuss the current landscape of cultivated meat. He delves into the significant environmental and social issues this technology aims to address and explores its potential future impacts.  Steven Lang serves as the Vice President of Science and Technology at California Cultured, where he utilizes plant cell culture to create sustainable and ethical chocolate and coffee. Prior to this role, he was the Vice President of Bioprocess at Upside Foods, where he focused on developing cultured chicken products.  LINKS: Steven Lang on LinkedIn California Cultured Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions Website METTLER TOLEDO Laboratory Solutions on LinkedIn Dana Clémençon on LinkedIn Micah Schweizer on LinkedIn  Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer on Balancing the Future from METTLER TOLEDO, where they delve into the world of sustainable technology and its transformative impact on our lives.   Each episode features stories from leading innovators, breaking down complex tech advancements into engaging narratives that reveal how these innovations shape our present and future.   From the origins of new technologies to their individual and societal implications, this podcast offers a compelling look at the future of sustainability.

For hundreds of thousands of years, humans have pursued more effective, efficient ways of living and working. It’s our constant pursuitof better ways to do things. Better ways to solve problems. Better ways to communicate. Better ways to live and thrive. Throughout history, we have made countless innovations that have propelled our society toward new horizons. Those innovations have adapted across eras, from the Stone Age to the Iron Age, to now, where it's all about sustainability. Welcome to Balancing the Future, a show where we explore innovations in sustainable technology, and more importantly how they change our lives. In each episode, we bring you stories from the pioneers at the forefront of innovation—scientists, thinkers, and dreamers who are crafting our tomorrow. We’ll break down complex tech developments into engaging stories, understanding where these technologies came from, how they impact you as an individual, and how they will shape our future. From biopolymers to cultivated meat, to decarbonization, and more. Join hosts Dana Clémençon and Micah Schweizer as they decode the mechanisms behind the most groundbreaking innovations and look ahead to the challenges and opportunities on the horizon.  Subscribe now on your favorite podcast app to join us on this journey. The future is waiting.