Heart of the Trial
Welcome to a podcast delving into the personal narratives within the clinical research industry. Through candid interviews, we'll learn about the personal journeys and motivations of individuals who have chosen this profession. What I like to call 'their why'.
My aim is to spotlight the often overlooked heroes of clinical trials, showcasing their passion and dedication that extends beyond the spotlight of 'big Pharma.' These conversations will illuminate the heartfelt narratives of those driving advancements in medical research.
This podcast is not just for industry insiders; it's for everyone curious about the human side of healthcare. Beyond the industry's negative reputation, we'll shed light on the dedicated professionals behind clinical trials.
Join us as we uncover the heart and passion of those working tirelessly behind the scenes in clinical research. Welcome to Heart of the Trial!
Heart of the Trial
Season 2, Episode 11: Leading with Heart with Jess Thompson
Training, tattoos, and the truth about burnout in clinical research.
In this season finale of Heart of the Trial, Suzanne sits down with the visionary behind Clinical Research Pro and ClinOps at Sea—Jess Thompson—to talk about building a career with purpose and sustainability in clinical research. From project management tips to mental health
check-ins, Jess shares how her own journey through labs, sites, CROs, and sponsors inspiredher to create a professional development platform that supports the whole person, not just the job title.
Together, they dig into:
● What inspired Jess to start Clinical Research Pro
● How burnout reshaped her approach to leadership
● Why community is the antidote to overwhelm in this industry
● The story behind ClinOps at Sea and why it struck a nerve
● Empowering project managers to take ownership of their careers
📘 About the Guest
Jess Thompson, MS, MBA, PMP, is a clinical research project manager, wellness advocate, and founder of Clinical Research Pro—a platform offering expert-led learning, mentorship, and wellness support for clinical research professionals. With 15+ years of experience across labs, sites, CROs, and sponsors, Jess brings hands-on insight and heart-led leadership to everything she builds.
Under her leadership, CRPro offers programs in project and risk management, ICH GCP, change leadership, and career development, alongside resources focused on stress management, self-care, and work-life balance. She’s also the force behind ClinOps at Sea, a conference that brings connection and professional development to the high seas.
Jess is a highly rated speaker, a WCG MAGI Steering Committee member, and holds a CCRC, PMP, Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt, and multiple advanced degrees in business and leadership.
Her mission is to empower CRPMs and support clinical research professionals as whole people, not just project deliverables.
📍 Connect with Jess Thompson
Website: www.clinicalresearchpro.comInstagram: @clinicalresearchpro
LinkedIn: Jess Thompson
📞 Connect with Suzanne:
- Website: https://www.iceconsultingllc.com/home
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnersuzannem/
💌 Feedback and Questions:
- Email Suzanne at podcast@iceconsultingllc.com
🎙️ Tune in and get to know the passionate professional behind Heart of the Trial!