What do William Wallace, smart pill bottles, and pharma sales have in common?They all showed up in this week's #TheShot of #DigitalHealth Therapy. Jim Joyce and I had a chat with Innes Meldrum - Scottish-born, New Jersey-rooted CEO of AdhereTech. Innes unpacks his journey from flunking high school to running $Big brands and now cracking one of healthcare’s stickiest problems: medication adherence. We covered:
🤖 Tech vs. human behavior in adherence
🧩 Pharma’s paradox (have to watch to get more)
🧠 Leadership = authenticity + heart
🫥 Tech must be invisible for patients
📈 Adherence is greater than acquisition in long run
Big lessons. Big heart. Big impact.
🎧 Listen now and learn why belief might just be your biggest asset.
Fun mentions as always: Josh Stein Dave Griffiths 🇮🇪 Kaiser Permanente YourCoach.Health
00:00 – 03:00 — Opening Banter & Setup
Eugene, Jim & Innes kick things off across time zones with laughs and backstory.
03:00 – 08:00 — From Scotland to Kentucky
Innes shares his multicultural roots, flunking high school, and a summer teaching soccer in the US.
08:00 – 14:00 — Career Leap: Tech to Pharma
The unexpected journey from engineering at Nortel to global marketing at Novartis.
14:00 – 18:00 — Mental Health & Authentic Leadership
How neuroscience drew Innes in—and why emotional connection is key to commercial success.
18:00 – 22:00 — Joining AdhereTech
Why Innes took the CEO seat and what surprised him when he arrived.
22:00 – 27:00 — Solving the Adherence Problem
A dive into AdhereTech’s smart pill bottle and how it’s changing patient behavior.
27:00 – 32:00 — Pharma Economics & Ownership Gaps
The financial burden of non-adherence—and who really owns the problem in healthcare.
32:00 – 36:00 — Stress, Behavior, and Health Coaching
Exploring the real reasons patients don’t take meds—and how health coaching can help.
36:00 – 41:00 — Resilience & System Innovation
Innes reflects on leadership growth, system constraints, and building a startup culture.
41:00 – 45:00 — Future Vision & Final Advice
A keynote moment: belief, purpose, and what Innes would tell his younger self.
April 23, 2025
🎙️ What does it take to create a healthcare system that truly works for everyone?
In this episode of HIT Like a Girl, host Demi Radeva sits down with Kristen Valdes, founder and CEO of b.well Connected Health, to explore how interoperability and innovation are reshaping the future of healthcare.
Kristen shares her journey from working with Medicare and Medicaid Services to developing one of the first private Medicare Advantage plans. The conversation dives into:
The critical role of interoperability in breaking down barriers to data sharing.
How federal mandates and consumer expectations are driving the need for seamless digital experiences.
The importance of partnerships—from big tech companies like Samsung to healthcare providers—in advancing innovation.
Why policy changes are essential to improving access and equity in healthcare.
💡 Kristen’s vision for the future of healthcare is one where technology empowers consumers, simplifies complexity, and bridges gaps in care.
Key Moments:
⏱️ 01:19 | Policy Shifts and Industry Changes
⏱️ 02:52 | Interoperability Challenges and Solutions
⏱️ 05:28 | Consumer Expectations in Healthcare
⏱️ 07:32 | The Future of Digital Health and Partnerships
⏱️ 09:51 | Enabling and Educating Providers
⏱️ 11:36 | Innovations and Partnerships Driving Change
⏱️ 15:00 | Bold Predictions for the Future of Digital Health
🎧 Tune in to hear Kristen’s inspiring insights on how interoperability and innovation are transforming healthcare—and what it means for patients, providers, and policymakers alike.
Why Listen?
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about healthcare innovation, interoperability, and the future of consumer-driven care. Kristen’s expertise and vision offer a roadmap for creating a more connected, accessible, and equitable healthcare system.
April 22, 2025
Learn why addressing health inequities benefits not only individuals but also enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the entire healthcare system. Our panel of change agents will discuss what’s required to sustainably reduce health disparities.
April 17, 2025
The phrase "Food as Medicine" has moved beyond buzzwords to become a powerful force in health tech and digital health. From dedicated pavilions at major conferences like HLTH to a growing understanding of its profound impact to StartUp Health's newly-launched Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community, the concept is clear: what we eat plays a crucial role in preventing and managing chronic diseases – often more so than medication alone. Nutrition is not just about sustenance or weight management; it's a vital tool in fighting disease and fostering overall wellbeing.
Beyond its direct health benefits, treating food as medicine offers a unique advantage: it connects us. Sharing meals builds community and belonging, essential elements for human health and thriving that a pill simply cannot replicate.
In this episode, we speak with Rich Bennett, CEO & Co-founder of Epicured, a true standard-bearer in the Food as Medicine movement. Epicured delivers medically-tailored meals directly to individuals' homes, offering personalized nutrition plans designed by a team of expert nutritionists and Michelin-starred chefs, catering to a range of health conditions.
We delve into Epicured's exciting recent developments, including their groundbreaking partnership with Medicaid in New York State. This significant move expands access to their life-changing service to a wider population, particularly those who may not have had the means to benefit previously.
Bennett also shares his insights on joining as a founding member of StartUp Health's Food as Medicine Health Moonshot Community, highlighting the collaborative efforts driving innovation and growth in this vital field.
Epicured is one of the exciting growth stories in digital health today, and they are at a fascinating inflection point. Join us as Bennett discusses their recent successful fundraise and their ambitious plans to scale up production at their "healing food" facilities. This is a pivotal moment for Epicured and the entire Food as Medicine movement. Tune in to hear how they are revolutionizing healthcare, one delicious and nutritious meal at a time.
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.
April 17, 2025
🎙️ How can AI bridge the gap between data and actionable insights in healthcare?
In this episode of HIT Like a Girl, hosts Demi Radeva and Kim Perry, Chief Growth Officer of emtelligent, dive into the transformative potential of AI in healthcare.
Kim shares her expertise on the evolution of clinical AI, particularly Natural Language Processing (NLP), and how it’s turning unstructured data into actionable insights.
The conversation explores:
The progress and challenges of AI-driven documentation in healthcare.
Why accuracy and transparency are non-negotiable in AI solutions.
The critical role of healthcare-specific NLP tools in improving operational efficiency.
How policy shifts and technological expertise are shaping the future of healthcare innovation.
💡 Kim’s insights highlight the importance of closing the “last mile” in healthcare AI—where data meets real-world impact.
Key Moments:
⏱️ 01:03 | Current Trends and Challenges in Healthcare AI
⏱️ 02:34 | The Role of NLP in Clinical Documentation
⏱️ 03:46 | Overcoming Barriers to AI Adoption
⏱️ 07:34 | The Future of AI in Healthcare
⏱️ 10:19 | Conclusion and Final Thoughts
🎧 Tune in to discover how AI is revolutionizing healthcare—one insight at a time.
Why Listen?
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in AI, healthcare innovation, and the future of data-driven care. Kim’s expertise offers a roadmap for leveraging AI to improve efficiency, accuracy, and patient outcomes.
April 15, 2025
🎙️ How can we harness the power of AI to transform healthcare while keeping humanity at the center?
In this episode of HIT Like a Girl, host Demi Radeva sits down with Patty Hayward, a trailblazer in healthcare IT with over 25 years of experience.
Patty shares her fascinating journey from conservation biology to tackling some of the biggest challenges in healthcare IT, including automation, AI integration, and improving systems for both payers and providers. The conversation dives into:
The delicate balance between science and art in healthcare innovation.
How AI is reshaping patient experiences, from diagnostics to care delivery.
The importance of managing bias, ensuring data security, and fostering responsible AI adoption.
The role of empathy and intentionality in policy-making and technology design.
💡 Patty’s insights are a powerful reminder that technology is not just about efficiency—it’s about enhancing human connection and care.
Key Moments:
⏱️ 00:14 | Patty Hayward’s Journey into Healthcare
⏱️ 01:28 | The Intersection of Science and Art in Healthcare
⏱️ 02:05 | Policy Shifts and the Role of AI in Healthcare
⏱️ 03:23 | Real-World Applications of AI in Healthcare
⏱️ 04:37 | Responsible AI Adoption: Managing Bias and Ensuring Security
⏱️ 06:48 | How Technology is Transforming Patient Interactions
⏱️ 10:39 | Women Leading the Charge in Healthcare Technology
⏱️ 13:07 | Patty’s Message to Policymakers: Empathy and Intentionality Matter
🎧 Tune in to hear Patty’s inspiring story and learn how we can shape a future where technology and humanity work hand in hand.
Why Listen?
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about AI, healthcare innovation, and the human side of technology. Patty’s expertise and perspective offer a roadmap for creating a healthcare system that’s not only smarter but also more compassionate.
April 8, 2025
In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, we dive into one of the most fascinating innovation stories in health tech. Our guest is Chuck Papageorgiou, CEO of NeuroEM Therapeutics, a company that’s part of StartUp Health’s Alzheimer’s Moonshot Community and is making waves with a radically different approach to treating Alzheimer’s disease — using radio waves.
What started as a research study to prove that cell phones cause brain cancer led to an unexpected breakthrough: the very same radio frequencies used in phones appeared to improve brain health in mice with Alzheimer’s. The discovery sparked a scientific journey that has since included promising human trials, FDA Breakthrough Device designation, partnerships, and progress towards bringing this non-invasive, affordable, at-home therapy to millions.
Papageorgiou shares how NeuroEM’s wearable headset is helping untangle the brain’s toxic proteins, the science behind this counterintuitive tech, and why the impact could rival — or even surpass — that of current Alzheimer’s drugs.
If you're looking for an inspiring story about accidental genius ideas, bold leadership, and breakthrough innovation in brain health, this one’s a must-listen.
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.
April 3, 2025
Explore the delicate balance between technological efficiency and the personal touch crucial in health experiences. Panelists will discuss the innovative approaches they’re taking to synergize human empathy with AI to create hyper-personalized communications that respect individual preferences and cultural contexts.
April 3, 2025
🎙️ What if your identity could seamlessly follow you through every healthcare experience?
In this episode of HIT Like a Girl, hosts Demi Radeva and Shriya Palekar sit down with a visionary healthcare expert to explore how reusable networked identities are transforming the patient experience.
Drawing parallels to their groundbreaking work in secure identity verification at airports, Shriya explains how this innovative approach can streamline healthcare processes, improve efficiency, and empower patients. The conversation dives into:
The potential of reusable identities to enhance interoperability and reduce administrative burdens.
How policy shifts under the new administration could shape the future of healthcare technology.
The transformative impact of the 21st Century Cures Act on patient data access and consent management.
The critical role of women in healthcare leadership and the need for diverse perspectives in driving innovation.
💡 This episode is a masterclass in how technology can bridge gaps between patients, providers, and policymakers—while putting control back in the hands of consumers.
Key Moments:
⏱️ 00:47 | Vision for a Networked Identity in Healthcare
⏱️ 01:17 | Policy Shifts and Their Impact on the Industry
⏱️ 03:46 | Balancing Provider and Patient Perspectives
⏱️ 04:38 | Identity Verification and Consent Management
⏱️ 05:22 | How the 21st Century Cures Act is Changing the Game
⏱️ 06:17 | Empowering Women in Healthcare Leadership
⏱️ 07:23 | A Message to Policymakers: Prioritize Expertise and Nuance
🎧 Tune in to discover how reusable networked identities are paving the way for a more connected, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare system.
Why Listen?
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in healthcare innovation, patient empowerment, and the intersection of technology and policy. The guest’s insights offer a roadmap for creating a healthcare system that works for everyone—patients, providers, and policymakers alike.
April 1, 2025
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
March 26, 2025
🎙️ 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.
March 25, 2025
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.
March 20, 2025
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
1️⃣ Welcome & Icebreaker (00:00 - 03:00)
👉 Hosts discuss podcast rankings, meeting Anthony, and app testing.
2️⃣ Anthony’s Origin Story (03:00 - 07:00)
👉 From speech therapy struggles to founding Freestyle Love Supreme.
3️⃣ The Birth of Freestyle Love Supreme (07:00 - 10:00)
👉 How a college improv troupe shaped his career & led to Broadway.
4️⃣ The Magic of Improv (10:00 - 14:00)
👉 Why improv is a tool for confidence, creativity & problem-solving.
5️⃣ Neuroscience & Improv (14:00 - 19:00)
👉 Brain science behind improv, fMRI studies, and cognitive benefits.
6️⃣ Mindless, Inc. & AI-Powered Games (19:00 - 25:00)
👉 AI-driven mental fitness games & their impact on mental health.
7️⃣ The Art of Freestyle & Startup Pitches (25:00 - 29:00)
👉 Freestyling startup pitches at AARP & turning ideas into rap.
8️⃣ Clear IP Freestyle Moment (29:00 - 33:00)
👉 Anthony creates an impromptu rap about Jim’s startup.
9️⃣ 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.
March 19, 2025
🎙️ 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.
March 18, 2025
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.
March 14, 2025
🎤 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.
March 12, 2025
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
March 11, 2025
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.
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March 6, 2025
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.
February 28, 2025
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.
February 21, 2025
#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
1️⃣ 🧠 Data knows more than you think about you..
2️⃣ 💊 Traditional & functional medicine should be friends, not foes.
3️⃣ 📊 AI + biomarkers = precision medicine goldmine.
4️⃣ 💰 U.S. healthcare system = sick care, not healthcare.
5️⃣ 🎵 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
February 19, 2025
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.
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February 14, 2025
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
February 12, 2025
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.
February 7, 2025