The Protectors® Podcast
Welcome to The Protectors® Podcast, where the valor meets the storyteller. Hosted by Jason Piccolo, a seasoned veteran and retired special agent, this series is a must-listen for anyone intrigued by the courage and tales of those who pledge to protect us. Beyond the front-line stories of bravery and dedication, this podcast goes a step further, weaving in the perspectives of those who bolster and narrate the protector's journey—featuring a remarkable lineup including New York Times Best Sellers and acclaimed Hollywood actors.
The Protectors® Podcast offers a diverse array of voices, from those who wear the uniform to the authors and entertainers who amplify their stories. It's a unique blend that highlights not only the raw realities faced by our protectors but also how their sacrifices inspire the narratives we cherish in literature and film. Each episode is a testament to the interconnected worlds of service and support, bringing listeners an unmatched depth of insight.
Dr. Jason Piccolo is a retired federal agent, former U.S. Army Infantry Captain (Iraq 2006), and author.
Past Guests Include:- Sean Patrick Flanery - Andrews & Wilson- Mark Greaney- Stephen Hunter- Remi Adeleke - Florent Groberg - Clint Emerson - Travis Mills
The Protectors® Podcast
#143 | Dr. Luis Alvarez | U.S. Army Veteran | MIT | Theradaptive
Dr. Luis Alvarez joined The Protectors to discuss the future of warfighter healing. Interview coming this week. Luis is a U.S. Army Veteran and has a PhD from MIT.
About: Luis is a West Point grad and Iraq Veteran. While serving in the Army in Iraq, Alvarez was frustrated to see the lack of technology available for targeted tissue regeneration. Some of his fellow service members underwent amputations weeks or months after a wound originally occurred because the bone and tissue couldn't be healed properly.
To address that shortcoming, Luis got a PhD in biological engineering from MIT and developed a method of converting the most powerful regenerative proteins currently used in humans into material-binding variants. These new proteins, which can be coated on to medical devices or implants, allow for targeted tissue regeneration with little off-target effects.
In practical terms, this means that major bone breaks could now be healed in a matter of weeks, not months. Cartilage that may have been considered irreparable might now be fully repaired. His company, Theradaptive, has received $6 million in funding from the Department of Defense. While their lead products are for orthopedic trauma, they have also developed similar therapeutics for spinal fusion, cartilage repair, localized oncotherapy, and more.
Make sure to check out Jason on IG @drjasonpiccolo