Marketing and Sales Podcasts

What do angel investing, cosmonaut training, and funding a 10-year health community project have in common? Esther Dyson. Obviously. In our latest episode #164 of #TheShot of #DigitalHealth Therapy, Jim Joyce and I had the pleasure to catchup with Esther. We covered: Why she funded Wellville to rebuild social fabric in underserved communities (and what she really learned) What 23andMe got right — and what it didn’t... Her next chapter: writing "Term Limits", a book about being human in the age of infinite AI And why “making new mistakes” is a better life motto than “move fast and break things” Esther’s wisdom is as timeless as her curiosity — and we’re just glad she finally made it on #TheShot. Fun mentions as always: Matthew Holt Unity Stoakes Marina Borukhovich Rick Brush Peter H. Diamandis Linda Avey Stepan Pachikov Anne Wojcicki Section Breakdown (Topics + Timestamps): Intro & Background Setup Esther joins & shares how this podcast started as a pandemic experiment. 00:00 – 04:00 Esther’s Life Journey in 3 Speeds From Oppenheimer roots to Forbes to cosmonaut training. 04:00 – 08:00 Cosmonaut Training & Health Discovery How a space detour saved her life. 08:00 – 12:00 Wellness Habits & Biohacking Wisdom Swimming, eating early, and NOT eating at cocktail parties. 12:00 – 14:00 Becoming an Angel Investor How a million-dollar challenge turned her into an investor. 14:00 – 17:00 Why She Started Wellville From judging the Healthcare XPrize to 10 years of social fabric repair. 18:00 – 25:00 Hard Truths About Systems & Poverty Trust, grants-as-drugs, and funding that's actually fair. 25:00 – 27:00 On Government, Prevention & Food Systems Sugar taxes, vaccines, and the real trends that matter. 27:00 – 29:00 23andMe’s Rise, Fall, and Lessons She got the education, not the return. 29:00 – 33:00 Term Limits & Being Fully Human Why we need constraints, not infinity — and why Pam the hygienist is the real hero. 35:00 – 44:00

What happens when patients take the lead in shaping healthcare innovation?  In this episode of HIT Like a Girl, guest host Demi Radeva sits down with Molly Schreiber, a passionate patient advocate who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 35 years and rheumatoid arthritis. Molly shares her incredible journey from being a patient to joining Savvy Cooperative, a patient-owned marketplace revolutionizing how healthcare companies access patient insights and data. Together, Demi and Molly explore: The critical gaps between patient needs and industry deliverables. How patient-centric approaches can drive better healthcare solutions. The ongoing challenges in digital health, including accessibility, interoperability, and data privacy—especially in women’s health. Why patient collaboration is essential for meaningful policy and innovation. Molly’s story is a powerful reminder that patients aren’t just beneficiaries of healthcare—they’re its most valuable partners. Key Moments: 00:17 | Molly’s Personal Healthcare Journey 00:59 | Policy Shifts and Industry Changes 02:21 | Bridging the Gap Between Patient Needs and Industry Delivery 03:18 | How Savvy Cooperative is Empowering Patients 05:36 | Overcoming Challenges in Digital Health Accessibility 07:12 | Interoperability and Patient Control Over Data 08:21 | The Untapped Value of Patient Data 10:07 | Women’s Health Data and Privacy Concerns 11:17 | How to Improve Patient Collaboration in Healthcare 12:24 | Molly’s Message to Policymakers Tune in to hear Molly’s inspiring story and learn how patient insights are shaping the future of healthcare. Why Listen? This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about patient advocacy, healthcare innovation, and data-driven solutions. Molly’s insights are a call to action for policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to put patients at the center of healthcare.

AI has been quietly transforming healthcare for years, but the arrival of ChatGPT changed the game. Suddenly, everyone—from patients to investors—could see the real-world impact of AI in making healthcare more efficient and accessible. One company leading this transformation is Mediktor, a pioneer in AI-powered symptom assessment. Before AI had its cultural moment, Mediktor—a member of the StartUp Health community since 2016—was already using it to help stratify patients and guide them to the right level of care. Now, they’re growing rapidly and shaping the future of AI in healthcare. In this episode, we chat with Cristian Pascual, CEO & Co-founder of Mediktor, to discuss: The evolution of AI in healthcare and why it’s accelerating now How Mediktor’s AI-driven symptom assessment is improving patient care The challenges of AI in healthcare, including LLMs, "black-box" models, and hallucinations Why a hybrid AI approach—combining automation with human safeguards—is the future As AI continues to shape healthcare, companies must balance innovation with accuracy. Pascual shares insights on how to harness AI’s power while ensuring reliability and trust. Tune in to explore the next wave of AI in healthcare—and what it means for patients, providers, and the industry at large. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Imagine starting life with a speech impediment and ending up as a Broadway's beatboxing, improv master - that’s Anthony Veneziale’s journey! A presentation and storytelling expert, Grammy-nominated star of both Broadway and film, he is the co-creator of the acclaimed Freestyle Love Supreme, an improvised, hip hop, live musical performance with a rolling cast of characters including the likes of Lin-Manuel Miranda, Christopher Jackson and Daveed Diggs. Anthony proves that the best ideas come from embracing yes, and... Jim Joyce and I had a blast on today's episode of #TheShot of #DigitalHealth today as it was packed with epic freestyle moments, brain science, and enough energy to light up all of Las Vegas. Bonus: We even got Anthony to drop a custom freestyle rap about ClearIP! If you want to laugh, learn, and maybe rethink how improv can revolutionize creativity, mental health, and business, this one’s for you. Top 3 Key Insights Improv fuels confidence, creativity & problem-solving Brain science proves improv enhances cognition & mental agility Saying ‘Yes, And’ unlocks innovation & business success Fun mentions as always: Matthew Holt Daniel Couchman Kendall Roberto Ascione Kristin Milburn Frontiers Health Rachel Loui Christie Pitts Matt Loeb #YesAnd #Improvisation #Creativity #Neuroscience #MentalFitness #FreestyleInnovation Podcast Breakdown Welcome & Icebreaker (00:00 - 03:00) Hosts discuss podcast rankings, meeting Anthony, and app testing. Anthony’s Origin Story (03:00 - 07:00) From speech therapy struggles to founding Freestyle Love Supreme. The Birth of Freestyle Love Supreme (07:00 - 10:00) How a college improv troupe shaped his career & led to Broadway. The Magic of Improv (10:00 - 14:00) Why improv is a tool for confidence, creativity & problem-solving. Neuroscience & Improv (14:00 - 19:00) Brain science behind improv, fMRI studies, and cognitive benefits. Mindless, Inc. & AI-Powered Games (19:00 - 25:00) AI-driven mental fitness games & their impact on mental health. The Art of Freestyle & Startup Pitches (25:00 - 29:00) Freestyling startup pitches at AARP & turning ideas into rap. Clear IP Freestyle Moment (29:00 - 33:00) Anthony creates an impromptu rap about Jim’s startup. The Power of Yes, And (33:00 - 36:00) How embracing ‘yes, and’ can transform business & creativity. Closing Advice & Big Takeaways (36:00 - End) Anthony’s wisdom for entrepreneurs & creators.

What does it take to revolutionize healthcare with data? In this episode of the HIT Like a Girl Podcast, guest host Demi Radeva sits down with Shirel Daniel, a leader in the healthcare startup space, to uncover her unique journey and the transformative work she’s directing at Extrico Health. From her roots at Syracuse University and Tel Aviv University to her impactful roles with the UN Environment and Philadelphia Internal Medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, Shirel’s path to healthcare innovation is anything but traditional. Now, as a leader at Extrico Health, she’s harnessing the power of data analytics, AI, and clinical phenotypes to tackle some of healthcare’s biggest challenges—from Revenue Cycle Management to Clinical Documentation Improvement—all while keeping patient privacy and outcomes at the forefront. Tune in to hear Shirel share: How Extrico Health is using AI-driven insights to improve hospital performance and patient care. The delicate balance between innovation, security, and regulatory compliance in the age of AI. Why value-based care is the future—and how Extrico is paving the way. A roadmap for overcoming patient privacy barriers and aligning AI policy language across the industry. Key Moments: 00:00 | Shirel’s Nontraditional Path to Health Startups 04:56 | Aligning AI Policy Language for Industry-Wide Impact 08:35 | Breaking Down Patient Privacy Barriers 09:48 | Balancing AI, Security, and Innovation 13:08 | The Shift to Value-Based Care and Better Patient Outcomes 17:06 | Shirel’s Vision for the Future of Healthcare Improvement This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the intersection of data, AI, and healthcare innovation. Shirel’s insights are a masterclass in navigating the complexities of the industry while staying focused on what matters most: improving patient lives. Stay Connected: Follow Shirel Daniel on LinkedIn Learn more about Extrico Health This episode was recorded live at #ViVE2025—where the future of healthcare comes to life.

We all know light therapy can brighten our mood, especially for those battling depression or seasonal affective disorder. But what if light could do so much more? In this week's episode of StartUp Health NOW, we dive deep into the revolutionary work of StartUp Health community member Mai Nguyen, PhD, CEO & Co-founder of Optoceutics. Forget what you think you know about light therapy. Nguyen and her team are pioneering a new frontier, demonstrating how precisely delivered light, through the eyes, can actually reprogram brain waves. This isn't just about mood enhancement; it's about potentially slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Join us for a fascinating conversation with Nguyen, a Berkeley researcher turned entrepreneur, as she discusses her groundbreaking device, currently marketed as a wellness tool, but with profound clinical aspirations. Discover how her collaboration with engineers in Copenhagen has led to a novel technology that's already making waves. This episode will challenge your perception of the lights around you and illuminate the future of brain health. Get ready to have your mind blown! Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Music as medicine? More like a prescription for good vibes! In our latest episode of #TheShot of #DigitalHealth Therapy, Jim Joyce and I jammed with Rachel Francine, CEO of Musical Health Technologies aka SingFit, the company bringing singing-based therapy to people worldwide. Turns out, belting out tunes can be as powerful as a prescription—especially for dementia care Rachel’s journey? From growing up in a beanbag factory (yes, really) with an opera-singing inventor dad, to riding every major tech wave before it was cool. Now, she’s scaling music therapy to change lives at scale—because, let’s be real, we could all use some more dopamine and less stress. What’s next? SingFit is making waves in care homes, hospitals, and even football clubs.. Top 5 Key Takeaways Singing is therapy Music unlocks memories Less meds, more music Singing reduces anxiety & agitation Singing reduces anxiety & agitation Scaling music therapy Fun mentions as always: Andy Tubman Chandana Fitzgerald Francesca Wuttke Ali Parsa Jorge Juan Fernández García [00:00 - 04:00] | Intro & Banter Jim & Eugene joke about podcast delays, St. Patrick’s Day, and Irish gifts to the White House. [04:00 - 10:00] | Meet Rachel Francine: A Life in Tech From VHS vs. Beta to CitySearch, Rachel recounts her wild career journey. [10:00 - 15:00] | Growing Up in a Beanbag Factory with an Opera-Singing Inventor Dad Yes, really. Also, how patents were dinner table conversations. [15:00 - 20:00] | From Nashville to Music Tech: The Road to SingFit Rachel’s experience in the music industry & early digital platforms. [20:00 - 27:00] | What is SingFit? And Why Singing is Medicine Explaining the science of active music therapy and its impact. [27:00 - 33:00] | Case Studies: Dementia, Autism & Mental Health How singing reduces agitation, anxiety, and even hospital visits. [33:00 - 37:00] | Scaling Music Therapy: The Market Challenge Why music therapists are rare & how SingFit is bridging the gap. [37:00 - 40:00] | The Future of SingFit & Big Announcements Coming Expansion to B2C, football clubs, and a mystery mega-partnership. [40:00 - 42:00] | Jim’s “Famous Last Question” Rachel’s advice? Follow the money & understand the music business. [42:00 - End] | Wrap-Up & Subscribe! Final thoughts, audience shout-outs, and the importance of hitting that subscribe button.

With a new administration under President Trump, the healthcare industry is poised for significant shifts. How do we adapt, innovate, and lead through change? That’s the focus of this special series on HIT Like a Girl podcast, hosted by Demi Radeva, our newest guest host and a powerhouse in health system financing and innovation. In this series, Demi shares her journey and sits down with 6 incredible women experts to explore how they’re navigating change, driving innovation, and shaping the future of healthcare.  In this first episode, we get to know more about Demi—her background, her mission, and the unique perspective she brings to the conversation. Here’s what you’ll hear: 00:00 HIT Like a Girl Podcast Returns 04:12 Building Health Equity at Optum 08:09 Missing Startups at ViVE 11:59 Exploring AI's Impact on Stakeholders 13:45 Women's Health Data Privacy Concerns 17:24 Navigating Changing Times Together Why This Episode Matters This episode sets the stage for the entire series, introducing Demi’s expertise and passion for healthcare innovation. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a patient, or simply curious about the future of the industry, this conversation will inspire you to think boldly and act decisively in the face of change. Coming Up in This Series Demi’s conversations with 6 incredible women experts are just around the corner! All episodes were recorded at #ViVE2025 Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming: Shirel Daniel (Extrico Health): Branding, marketing, and the evolving definitions of AI. Molly Schreiber (Savvy Coop): The patient perspective, women’s health, and data privacy. Shriya Palekar (CLEAR): Patient access to data and care, and the role of startups. Patty Hayward (Talkdesk): AI’s role in improving patient experience. Kim Perry (emtelligent): Clinical documentation and the intersection of AI and interoperability. Kristen Valdes (B.Well): Interoperability and how tech companies are transforming healthcare. Stay in Touch:  Demi Radeva | Akros Advisory

Imagine this: 73 million Americans are over 65. Among them, 10-20% experience mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a potential precursor to Alzheimer’s. Yet their primary care doctors, with only 14 minutes per patient, lack the time for crucial neurological screenings. This is a critical gap in our healthcare system, especially as groundbreaking Alzheimer's research and therapies emerge, making early detection more vital than ever. That’s where Cx Precision Medicine comes in. In this episode, we sit down with Sid O’Bryant, PhD, and Danguole Altman, the team behind CxPM, a company in the StartUp Health Alzheimer's Moonshot Community working to revolutionize early cognitive screening with a simple blood test. Their innovative diagnostic tool is designed to detect neurodegenerative diseases earlier, ensuring patients get the right care at the right time. O’Bryant's extensive research, now commercialized by Altman's leadership, offers a powerful tool for personalized care, enabling earlier, more accurate diagnoses of neurodegenerative diseases. We'll dive into their unique journeys, the science behind their innovative blood test, and how it's poised to transform patient care.    Discover how Cx Precision Medicine is empowering patients to get the right care at the right time, streamlining the diagnostic process and ultimately, improving lives. Join us as we explore the future of Alzheimer's detection and the hope it brings. Let's get into it! Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

On this episode of StartUp Health NOW, we learn about the power of photobiomodulation, a light therapy that promotes healing at the cellular level. From treating seasonal affective disorder to wound healing, light therapy's applications are expanding. We're joined by Guillaume Blivet of REGEnLIFE, a member of the StartUp Health community who is pioneering research into using photobiomodulation to address Alzheimer's disease. Learn how their unique approach, targeting both the brain and gut, shows promise in reducing inflammation and improving cellular health. We discuss the science, the promising early results, and the potential of this groundbreaking approach. Unveiling Photobiomodulation: Dive into the science of photobiomodulation, a cutting-edge light therapy that stimulates cellular healing at the molecular level. Explore how specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light can trigger biological responses, reducing inflammation and promoting cellular health. Beyond Traditional Light Therapy: Discover how researchers are pushing the boundaries of light therapy beyond seasonal affective disorder and dermatology. Learn about innovative applications of photobiomodulation for internal therapeutic benefits. REGEnLIFE's Revolutionary Approach: Meet Guillaume Blivet, co-founder of REGEnLIFE, and his team's pioneering work in applying photobiomodulation to combat Alzheimer's disease. Explore their unique strategy of targeting both the brain and the gut simultaneously, leveraging the crucial gut-brain connection. Learn about the animal studies that have shown promising results. Innovation in Alzheimer's Treatment: Understand how REGEnLIFE's photobiomodulation therapy aims to slow the progression of Alzheimer's by reducing neuroinflammation and enhancing cellular function. Hear about the ongoing human trials in France and the potential for this non-invasive, safe treatment to transform Alzheimer's care. Tune in now as we learn how targeting the gut-brain connection with specific wavelengths of light could offer new hope for patients.   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.  

When your health is on the line, accurate diagnostics are crucial. But many blood tests suffer from false positives, false negatives, and frustrating gray areas. In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, host Logan Plaster sits down with John Forrest, CEO & Co-founder of Veravas, a member of the StartUp Health community, to discuss their groundbreaking solution. VeraBIND: Learn how Veravas' patented technology cleans blood samples to remove impurities, dramatically increasing diagnostic accuracy and eliminating ambiguous results. Transforming Alzheimer's Detection: Find out how VeraBIND results in a test with a single result that says yes, you have the disease, or no, you don’t. Beyond Blood: Explore the potential of VeraBIND to transform diagnostics for a wide range of diseases, even using saliva samples – which are much easier for older patients to manage on a regular basis. The Future: Hear Forrest's insights on the challenges and opportunities in the health tech industry and how Veravas is poised to make a significant impact. Tune in for the conversation and learn how Veravas is turning the tide on diagnostic uncertainty.   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

#TheShot of #DigitalHealth Therapy took a deep dive with Payal Bhandari M.D. ,and let’s just say... minds were blown, hearts were inspired, and Jim Joyce almost started singing “Country Roads” when he heard Payal was from West Virginia. From AI & diagnostics to functional medicine vs. traditional care, Payal didn't hold back. If you think your annual check-up is comprehensive, wait until she tells you how our health system is stuck in the past and why your microbiome is screaming for attention. We tackled everything—personalized medicine, integrative care, RFK Jr.'s "Make America Healthy Again" movement, and why your data is so valuable.. If you want science, heart, and a side of humor in your healthcare discussions, this is the episode for you! Top 5 Key Takeaways Data knows more than you think about you.. Traditional & functional medicine should be friends, not foes. AI + biomarkers = precision medicine goldmine. U.S. healthcare system = sick care, not healthcare. Music is medicine. Literally. Fun mentions as always: Mark Hyman, MD Sandra Scheinbaum, Ph.D. Larry Shore MD, FAAFP Matthew Holt Lucy Reynales Ritesh Patel ViVE Marina Borukhovich

Are health tech founders building what the market actually needs? At StartUp Health, we see firsthand their biggest challenge: achieving product-market fit. But it's more than just market alignment. Investor Robert Garber of 7wireVentures calls it "contract-market fit"—proof that people will pay. This week, we talk with Robin Roberts, CEO & Founder of DatosX, a company in the StartUp Health community that is helping digital health startups achieve just that. The Problem: Many early-stage health companies struggle with product-market fit. They may be building amazing technology, but the market isn't ready. The Solution: DatosX is a two-sided marketplace connecting health tech buyers (like hospitals) with startups. This enables: Pre-validation of purchases by hospitals. Creation of buyable products by startups. The Insight: This unique position gives Roberts a front-row seat to what hospitals really want (hint: it involves physician efficiency) and where startups often miss the mark. The Opportunity: We explore these critical trends and discover the opportunities for savvy startups in 2025. Listen in as Roberts shares his insights on achieving product-market fit and contract-market fit in the digital health space. The Access to Care Moonshot Community is comprised of mission-aligned founders and CEOs collaborating to accelerate breakthroughs to deliver quality care to everyone, regardless of location or income. » Meet the Access to Care Moonshot Community » Join a Health Moonshot Community Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Ever wonder what happens when you mix a lawyer’s mindset, cold-calling resilience, and a deep love for healthcare investment? You get Richard Lungen, a guy who turned rejection into an art form and convinced 100+ healthcare execs to hand over $$$ for HC9 Ventures. From almost becoming a prosecutor to building provider networks before networks were cool, Richard’s journey is packed with wisdom, war stories, and a deep appreciation for just how hard healthcare really is. We covered everything from sales tactics to the power of listening to quarterly reports like it’s the latest #TheShot of #DigitalHealth Therapy podcast with Jim Joyce. If you're an entrepreneur trying to break into healthcare, here’s your golden ticket to understanding how to navigate this industry—spoiler alert: it’s a LONG game. Top 5 Key Takeaways Cold calling still works – Just know your target! Listen to earnings calls – They’re free market intelligence! Healthcare sales take years – So start now. Know your audience – Investors & buyers don’t want guesses. .... and great advice from Richard to entrepreneurs.. Fun mentions: Pete Antunes John Wray Tim Wentworth Charlie Falcone #DigitalHealth #HealthcareInvestment #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #HC9Ventures #TheShotPodcast

Ever wonder where the next big breakthrough in health will come from? Sometimes, the most innovative solutions arise from the most unexpected places. This week’s podcast episode dives into the fascinating world of a neurosurgeon who's revolutionizing glucose monitoring. Join us as we explore the groundbreaking work of Dr. Casey Halpern, co-founder of SynchNeuro, who is changing cardiometabolic care via the brain. We discuss: The unexpected connection between the brain and metabolism: How a neurosurgeon specializing in Parkinson's disease came across a game-changing approach to glucose monitoring. A non-invasive CGM for everyone: Learn about SynchNeuro's innovative behind-the-ear EEG device that could make continuous glucose monitoring accessible and affordable for millions at risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. From physician to founder: Dr. Halpern shares his inspiring story as a doctorpreneur, leading the double life of a medical career and leading a cutting-edge health tech startup. The future of cardiometabolic health: We explore how this new technology, combined with the rise of GLP-1 medications, could transform the way we manage and prevent diabetes and heart disease. The science behind the breakthrough: A deep dive into the research connecting brain signals to appetite and blood sugar regulation. Tune in to discover how SynchNeuro – a member of our Cardiometabolic Health Moonshot Community – is poised to reshape the landscape of cardiometabolic health and empower individuals to take control of their wellbeing.   For years, chronic health problems like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes have grown, becoming some of society's biggest killers. Thankfully, there's a generation of entrepreneurs tackling the issue from every angle. In the Cardiometabolic Health Moonshot Community, mission-aligned founders and CEOs collaborate to accelerate breakthroughs in cardiometabolic disease prevention, diagnosis, monitoring, management, and cures. » Meet the Community » Join the Community Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. » Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

AI, healthcare, and a nostalgic trip down digital memory lane—this week, Brian Kalis, Managing Director at Accenture Health joined Jim Joyce and I on this week's #TheShot of #DigitalHealth Therapy and made us all question why we weren’t launching startups in Web 1.0. Brian’s journey has been a blend of tech geekery, consulting wizardry, and AI-fueled optimism. We covered: The real deal behind AI adoption in healthcare Why health systems are drowning in red tape How health plans are finally picking up the pace ( yes, really?!) Also, a friendly PSA: AI agents might soon be negotiating with AI agents, leaving us humans to watch from the sidelines with popcorn. ..... Also, be nice to AI—they’re watching..... Fun mentions as always: Ankit Jain Infinitus Systems, Inc. Jeff Ruby John Brownlee Ethan Mollick

This idea called “food as medicine” isn’t new. People have been talking for decades about how the foods we put in our body play a bigger role in preventative health and disease management than any drug or medication we could. But it’s always been on the fringe. Partly because it’s difficult to do the studies that clinically prove that foods can be as effective as medications. And second, which is related, there hasn’t been much funding for this kind of work. So, what’s changed? To answer that question, we sat down with Victor Penev, CEO & Founder of Edamam, a longtime member of the StartUp Health Community. Victor’s created what may be the world’s largest repository of food data. But he’s also a futurist with a keen eye on where the industry is heading. In our conversation Penev explains how the uptake in GLP-1s and generative AI have come together in a fascinating way that opens up new opportunities in nutrition. Importantly, it may open up new funding sources and innovative business models. On that note: StartUp Health has formally kicked off our Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community, so if you or someone you know is a founder working in nutrition, someone with a passion to use food to make the world a healthier place, we’re accepting applications at StartUpHealth.com. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.    

Ever wonder what really drives success? Fearless risk-taking, AI-powered interns, and, uh… a chicken heart?! This week on #TheShot of #DigitalHealth Therapy, Jim Joyce and I sat down with the energetic Rachel Loui, who’s been through everything from management consulting, big pharma and big tech to hacking fear itself. She’s teaching companies how to conquer AI anxiety, embrace neuropsychology in business, and—oh yeah—how to not bring an actual chicken heart to a meeting. Tune in to learn why fear is the biggest enemy of growth, why pharma is still playing catch-up, and before your AI intern takes over your job. Top 5 Key Takeaways Fear blocks growth—hack it, don’t fight it. Gen AI is your (nearly) free 24/7 intern. Pharma still lags behind in AI adoption.. Data and psychology.... oh and ... a chicken heart can get you an A. Show Breakdown 00:00 - 02:00 | Back to Normal Format & AI Backgrounds Jim and Eugene discuss returning to regular podcasting and Jim’s AI-generated hotel room mishap. 02:01 - 05:00 | Meet Rachel: Life Starts with Death Rachel shares her philosophy on making bold life choices by imagining her 102-year-old self looking back. 05:01 - 08:00 | The Chicken Heart Story Rachel’s childhood experiment with a real chicken heart sets the tone for her lifelong passion for efficiency and impact. 08:01 - 12:00 | From Pharma to Strategy in China Rachel’s path from management consulting to Boehringer Ingelheim and leading strategy in China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. 12:01 - 16:00 | Startup Lessons & the Reality of Selling to Doctors How Rachel’s digital health startup failed, but taught her valuable lessons about sales, psychology, and tech adoption in healthcare. 16:01 - 20:00 | Google & Sales Psychology Applying data-driven insights from pharma to Google, managing $500M in revenue, and why sales is ultimately about psychology. 20:01 - 25:00 | Gen AI = Your Free Intern Rachel explains why AI is like a 24/7 intern and how companies can leverage it instead of fearing it. 25:01 - 30:00 | Pharma & AI: Playing Catch-Up (Again) The industry’s slow AI adoption, learning from consumer brands, and struggles with data-driven decisions. 30:01 - 34:00 | Global Pharma Strategy: Germany vs. China Rachel breaks down the cultural challenges of working between German HQ and the Chinese healthcare market. 34:01 - 36:00 | Final Advice: Be Bold, No Fear Rachel’s key advice for entrepreneurs: push past fear, take risks, and explore new skills—even improv!

What if a single scan could not only diagnose existing health issues but also predict future problems and help prevent them? That’s the groundbreaking vision behind Imaginostics, a startup co-founded by Codi Gharagouzloo, PhD. A new member of the StartUp Health community, Imaginostics creates innovative, non-invasive diagnostic solutions using breakthrough quantitative imaging biomarkers to provide new insight in health and disease. In this episode, StartUp Health co-founder Unity Stoakes interviews Gharagouzloo during JPM Week in San Francisco to explore the science behind Imaginostics and the unique technology they’re developing to revolutionize preventative health. You’ll also hear Gharagouzloo’s fascinating founder journey, from a troublemaking youth to a physicist with a soul-deep passion for transforming healthcare. With $5M raised and an FDA breakthrough designation in hand, Imaginostics is making waves. Don’t miss this inspiring story of innovation, passion, and the pursuit of better health for all.Tune in now!   Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Kicking Off #TheShot of #DigitalHealth Therapy 2025 with a new format! We're thrilled to launch the first episode of 2025 experimenting with long-form content — a whopping ~2-hour deep dive.. and I could not think of anyone better to be our guinea pig than than Jay Parkinson, MD, MPH, the legendary pioneer of virtual care. From childhood dirt bikes to reimagining healthcare through design thinking, Jay took us on a fascinating journey. This isn't just another episode—it's a masterclass on disruption, grit, and patience. Plus, we had a few laughs along the way (who knew golf courses could inspire healthcare innovation?). Top 5 Key Takeaways: "Patients need relationships and results—it's all about balance." Virtual care thrives with teamwork, not silos. Healthcare innovation = simplifying complexity creatively. The iPhone revolutionized how docs and patients connect. Burnout is real; staying curious is the antidote. Fun mentions as always: Steve Seuntjens Matt Loeb Christie Pitts Yoky Matsuoka Peter Pronovost MD, PhD, FCCM Mark Hyman, MD grant harrison David Karp Bryce Roberts Scott Shreeve, MD John Hallock Guy Friedman Alex LeBrun Vinod Khosla Panasonic Well YourCoach.Health -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Play-by-Play Kickoff & 2025 Vision (00:00 - 08:00) A lively intro to the new format, reflections on CES & JPM, and a warm welcome to Jay Parkinson. Jay’s Origin Story (08:01 - 20:00) From Missouri’s dirt roads to WashU, Jay shares his unique path, early inspirations, and love for design. Preventive Medicine Redefined (20:01 - 35:00) Insights into Jay’s time at Hopkins and how systems thinking shaped his view of population health. The Birth of Virtual Care (35:01 - 51:00) How the iPhone and tech-savvy culture in Williamsburg catalyzed Jay’s first practice model. Hello Health: Disrupting Primary Care (51:01 - 01:06:00) The challenges, funding, and lessons learned in creating a tech-forward physical + virtual care model. Sherpaa: The Pioneer of Virtual Primary Care (01:06:01 - 01:23:00) Building the foundations of sticky patient-doctor relationships via virtual care. Crossover Health & Strategic Scaling (01:23:01 - 01:32:00) The hybrid care model and Jay’s role in revolutionizing care delivery infrastructure. Tech Evolution & The Role of AI (01:32:01 - 01:41:00) AI's role in healthcare: tools, challenges, and why behavior change is the ultimate hurdle. Reflection on Healthcare Complexity (01:41:01 - 01:51:00) A candid discussion about systemic collapse, resilience, and the future of care. Parting Wisdom (01:51:01 - End) Jay’s advice to young disruptors: "Be patient, stay curious, and always keep learning."

Can vitamins play a bigger role in preventative health? Vous Vitamin, founded by doctors Arielle Levitan, MD, and Romy Block, MD, thinks so. This physician-led company in the StartUp Health community offers personalized vitamin subscriptions based on science, not hype. Join StartUp Health NOW as we dive deep with CEO Brad Helfand to explore the fascinating intersection of vitamins and technology. They'll discuss how Vous Vitamin is changing the game, including: The evidence-based approach behind personalized supplementation Bringing vitamins into the realm of preventative medicine and primary care Securing a spot on CNET's top 5 vitamin subscriptions Potential insurance and Medicare Advantage coverage Innovative corporate wellness programs Tune in to discover how Vous Vitamin is bridging the gap between traditional healthcare and the often-overlooked world of vitamins, and how technology is making this possible. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Join Unity Stoakes and Logan Plaster for a special podcast episode dedicated to their experience at CES 2025 in Las Vegas this past week. Hear their insights on: The rise of health tech at the world's largest consumer electronics show Key trends observed in the AARP AgeTech Collaborative and Eureka Park The future of innovation in areas like wearable technology and assistive devices The role of events like CES in advancing health moonshots This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and healthcare. Tune in now to gain valuable insights from CES 2025! Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

Empowering Caregivers: Avanlee Care Revolutionizes Senior Healthcare The aging population is rapidly growing. This demographic shift demands a new approach to healthcare, one that empowers family caregivers. Join us for our first podcast episode of 2025 as we chat with Avanlee Christine. A member of the StartUp Health community since 2022, Christine is the CEO & Founder of Avanlee Care, a platform that integrates caregivers into the healthcare of their aging loved ones. For almost every older person with a health concern there is an adult child who is worried and involved. In fact there are around 48 million unpaid family caregivers in the United States. Discover: How Avanlee Care is transforming the caregiver experience The benefits for health plans, particularly Medicare Advantage The power of family involvement in improving senior health outcomes This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in senior care, family caregiving, and the future of healthcare for an aging population. Listen now and learn how Avanlee Care is changing the game. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.

On this week's podcast episode, Steve Kraus and Sofia Guerra of Bessemer Venture Partners joined us to discuss the trends and predictions outlined in their second annual State of Health Tech report.  Key takeaways include: AI: Health tech dollars invested in AI-focused companies have increased 1.5x in just two years, reaching 38% in 2024 to date. Private market recovery: Mega rounds of $50M+ for later-stage companies with strong fundamentals, alongside a surge of seed and Series A companies scaling to $1M-$10M ARR within three years. 2025 predictions: Adoption of in-house services-as-software, AI enhancing doctors' capabilities, AI streamlining value-based care, and more companies blending cutting-edge technology with deep healthcare expertise. About Steve Kraus: Steve Kraus is a partner at Bessemer in the Cambridge office and a world-renowned healthcare investor. He is the author of Bessemer’s 10 Laws of Healthcare, Benchmarks for Growing Health Tech Businesses, and co-host of the podcast Heart of Healthcare. Kraus currently sits on the boards of Bright Health Group, Headspace Health, Groups, Qventus, AspenRx, HouseRx, Oshi Health, Folx Health, Mural Health, and Alcresta. About Sofia Guerra: Sofia Guerra is a vice president at Bessemer Venture Partners, where she invests in seed to growth healthcare and life sciences companies. She is the co-author of State of Health Tech report, Benchmarks for Growing Health Tech Business, and How to Scale Health Tech Businesses to $100M and Beyond, a study of 100+ best-in-class companies to understand key metrics relevant for scalability in healthcare software and tech-enabled services. Listen in for the complete chat with Steve Kraus and Sofia Guerra and learn about the key trends shaping the future of health tech. Are you ready to tell YOUR story? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. Exposure in StartUp Health Media to our global audience of investors and partners – including our podcast, newsletters, magazine, and YouTube channel – is a benefit of our Health Moonshot Community Showcase Membership. To schedule a call and see if you qualify to join and increase brand awareness through our multi-media storytelling efforts, submit our three-minute application. If you’re mission-driven, collaborative, and ready to contribute as much as you gain, you might be the perfect fit. Learn more and apply today. Want more content like this? Sign up for StartUp Health Insider™ to get funding insights, news, and special updates delivered to your inbox.