In this episode, we sit down with Simon Arkell, an experienced AI software company founder whose work sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, biopharma, and cancer research. Simon is the co-founder of multiple venture-backed companies including Deep Lens, Predixion Software, and Versifi, which together raised over $100M and were all successfully acquired.

Simon shares the story behind his latest company, Ryght, an agentic AI platform transforming how biopharma companies and CROs accelerate drug development. Ryght connects sponsors to a real-time, global network of AI-powered research sites known as AI Site Twins, enabling faster site selection, smarter feasibility, reduced costs, and compressed clinical timelines across all therapeutic areas and geographies.

Beyond technology and startups, Simon’s journey is remarkable. From arriving in the United States on a pole vaulting scholarship to becoming an Olympian representing Australia at two Olympic Games, three World Championships, and more, he explains how elite athletics shaped his mindset for entrepreneurship, leadership, and resilience.

We also explore Simon’s philanthropic work with Megan’s Wings, supporting families of children diagnosed with cancer, and his initiative Olympians in Business, a growing community helping elite athletes transition into successful business careers.

This conversation dives deep into AI in healthcare, venture-backed startups, drug development innovation, founder lessons, and how world-class performance in sports translates into building impactful companies.

Host: Jake Aaron Villarreal, leads the top AI Recruitment Firm in Silicon Valley www.matchrelevant.com, uncovering stories of funded startups and goes behinds to scenes to tell their founders journey. If you are growing AI Startup or have a great storytelling, email us at: jake.villarreal@matchrelevant.com