EP 72 -Sweet Success: The Intersection of Science, Startups, and Social Impact with Amai's CEO, Dr Ilan Samish
Release Date: 04/30/2024
Leadership Live
UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about Menopause Is it hot in here, or is it… Menopause? In this powerful episode of UNFILTERED, Daphna and Amy crack open one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed life transitions: menopause. From brain fog to emotional turbulence, night sweats to shifting identities, they share their raw, personal experiences and invite you into a conversation that too often happens in whispers, or not at all. This isn’t about medical jargon or “grin and bear it” advice. It’s about real talk: how menopause shows up in our bodies, our moods, our...
info_outlineLeadership Live
UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about Morning Routines Feel guilty for not joining the 5 am club? You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong. In the latest episode of the UNFILTERED Series, Daphna and Amy break down the myth that success has to start before sunrise. Explore why early wakeups aren’t a magic formula and how tuning into your natural energy leads to more focus, creativity, and confidence throughout the day. Morning routines aren’t about checking off boxes. They’re about anchoring yourself with what feels right for you. Whether it’s a cup of coffee in silence,...
info_outlineLeadership Live
Ever feel like a fraud—even with all your achievements? You’re not alone. In this first episode of UNFILTERED, Daphna Horowitz and Amy Riley explore imposter syndrome: what it is, why it shows up, and how to move through it. Discover: The 5 types of imposter syndrome Why it hits women and minorities harder How to reframe self-doubt as a sign of growth Tools to name it, normalize it, and own your value Raw, real, and relatable—this is the conversation we all need to hear. 🎧 Listen now. Share with someone who needs it. Timestamps [00:00:14] Imposter syndrome awareness...
info_outlineLeadership Live
Richard Parker, an expert in acquiring businesses, shares his journey of transforming business aspirations into reality. After facing a crossroad in his personal life, he realized the importance of making decisions based on uncertainty and the worst-case scenario. He emphasizes the value of buying a good business at a great price, rather than starting a risky startup. Richard also discusses the importance of humility and surrounding yourself with people who are smarter and more skilled. This episode offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. About the...
info_outlineLeadership Live
In this episode of Leadership Live, host Daphna Horowitz interviews Dr. Ilan Samish, CEO and founder of Amai Proteins, an Israeli food tech startup. Dr. Samish discusses his journey from academia to entrepreneurship and the development of a sugar substitute that is healthier, tastier, and more sustainable than traditional sweeteners. He also shares insights on the importance of effective communication, the impact of the recent conflict in Israel on his company, and the resilience and unity of his team. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with a leader who is making a difference in the...
info_outlineLeadership Live
Transitioning from being an expert to being a leader can be a challenging process for actuaries. Actuaries are known for their technical expertise and analytical skills, which they have honed through years of studying and passing exams. However, when they are promoted to leadership positions, they often struggle to step back from the technical work and trust others to handle it. In this episode, we dive into a conversation with Julia Lessing, a fellow of the Institute of Actuaries, Australia, and principal actuarial director of Guardian Actuarial, about building management and leadership...
info_outlineLeadership Live
Are you craving deeper, more authentic connections in your life? In this compelling episode, we explore the profound impact of genuine relationships on personal and professional growth. Join us as we unravel the secrets to cultivating authenticity, fostering trust, and embracing vulnerability. Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights, this episode inspires action, inviting you to embark on a journey towards deeper understanding, empathy, and impactful leadership.If you're ready to embark on a journey towards extraordinary leadership from within, this episode is a must-listen....
info_outlineLeadership Live
In this conversation with Moshe David, a British-Israeli serial entrepreneur, startup founder, angel investor, and advisor, Moshe discusses his diverse career journey, from running a web agency to fintech development and his current projects in DeFi blockchain and AI-powered fundraising. We also touch on Moshe's passion for MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, his love for football, and his transition to a sober, alcohol-free lifestyle. Join the conversation as Moshe shares insights on entrepreneurship and his personal experience of overcoming illness while spearheading a fintech startup, the...
info_outlineLeadership Live
In this episode, Daphna interviews Daniel Levitats, the man behind the success of Datum Dental. During the covid pandemic, Daniel and the company’s team decided to cut down their business expenses but decided to expand the directions on the market. The courage to dream big paid off; today, the company is one of the most successful of its kind. Tune in, because Daniel shares his 5 key leadership lessons and you need to hear them. Who’s Daniel Levitats? Daniel Levitats is a man who sets high bars and keeps raising them, no stranger to the high-tech world with 16 years under his...
info_outlineLeadership Live
In this episode, Daphna interviews Michael Bungay Stanier, author of "How to Work With (Almost) Anyone." The discussion leads to the importance of being authentic and embracing our good and not-so-good aspects. Michael shares a quirky story about a high school prank and how it relates to his work in disrupting traditional leadership and empowering others through coaching. The focus stays on exploring the concept of keystone conversations and building strong relationships at work. Tune in to discover Michael's unique perspective on life and coaching.. Who’s Michael Bungay-Stanier?...
info_outlineIn this episode of Leadership Live, host Daphna Horowitz interviews Dr. Ilan Samish, CEO and founder of Amai Proteins, an Israeli food tech startup. Dr. Samish discusses his journey from academia to entrepreneurship and the development of a sugar substitute that is healthier, tastier, and more sustainable than traditional sweeteners. He also shares insights on the importance of effective communication, the impact of the recent conflict in Israel on his company, and the resilience and unity of his team. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with a leader who is making a difference in the world.
About the guest:
Dr. Ilan Samish is the CEO and founder of Amai Proteins, an Israeli food tech startup that has developed the first sugar substitute that tastes just like sugar. With a background in computational protein design and genetics, Dr. Samish has a stellar academic career and has made significant contributions to the field. He is also a former journalist and lecturer, bringing a unique perspective to his work. Dr. Samish is passionate about helping people reduce their sugar intake and improve their health.
Resources:
Amai Proteins website: www.miproteins.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilansamish
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.co.il/citations?user=HI8y1D8AAAAJ
ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ilan_Samish
Key Takeaways:
-
Dr. Samish's unconventional skill in journalism has served him well in his leadership journey, particularly in communicating complex scientific concepts to a wider audience.
-
Amai Proteins has developed a sugar substitute that is made from sweet proteins found in the jungle, offering a healthier alternative to traditional sugar.
-
The protein-based sweetener is zero-calorie, sustainable, and has a taste that is indistinguishable from sugar.
-
The recent war in Israel had a significant impact on MI Proteins, with the loss of a lead researcher and employees affected by military duty. However, the company rallied together and continued to deliver on their mission.
Timestamps:
3:45 Journalism has been an unconventional skill that has helped shape Ilan’s view on science
7:15 Communication is an important skill to develop from an expert to a leader
9:00 The journey to developing Amai Proteins - the mindset and the quilt
16:07 Taking unconventional routes in life
18:37 The innovation and difference between ordinary sugar and the substitute
24:20 The Effect of sugar and Obesity to people and World
26:30 War in Israel - everything changed
32:40 Importance of mental health support after traumatic events
38:09 Losing a colleague- what happened next?
39:19 Transformation and resilience in the face of challenges
44:30 Key lessons in the transition
49:40 If you had a magic wand, what would you change about your world?
Connect with Daphna:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/
https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions
Did you enjoy this episode of Leadership Live podcast? Leave us a review HERE.