EP 72 -Sweet Success: The Intersection of Science, Startups, and Social Impact with Amai's CEO, Dr Ilan Samish

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 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:

www.daphnahorowitz.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/ 

https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions 

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