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StartUp Health NOW Podcast

StartUp Health NOW Podcast

StartUp Health NOW celebrates the innovators, industry leaders and entrepreneurs who are reimagining health and wellness.

Health Tech Trends: AI, Private Markets, and 2025 Predictions from Bessemer Venture Partners

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.
December 20, 2024

Diagnostikare Brings Leapfrog Innovation to Life for Indigenous Communities

Diagnostikare, founded by brothers Rafael López and Rodrigo López, MD, is revolutionizing healthcare access in Mexico, reaching deep into remote areas. In this episode of StartUp Health NOW, hear how this innovative telemedicine company in the StartUp Health community: Started in Mexico City to bring high quality virtual care to people    Partnered with large insurers and major employers like McDonald's to provide quality telemedicine Provides care to those who may have had very hard time seeing a doctor under the standard system And now, Diagnostikare is: Expanding access to healthcare in underserved rural communities Collaborating with Bayer and the World Bank to reach remote areas Leveraging technology like Starlink internet for telemedicine delivery This episode explores: The challenges and opportunities of expanding telemedicine globally The power of partnerships in healthcare The impact of technology on improving access to care This is a must-listen for anyone interested in global health, telemedicine, and social impact. Tune in now to learn how Diagnostikare is making a difference!   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 VIP Health Moonshot Community PRO 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.
December 12, 2024

Unlocking the Power of Storytelling to Grow Your Company

Join host Logan Plaster as he sits down with Unity Stoakes, President & Co-founder of StartUp Health, to discuss the power of branding and storytelling. In this insightful conversation, you'll learn: The importance of a strong brand identity for startups Lessons learned from building StartUp Health's brand that has become synonomous with health innovation How to leverage media and storytelling to amplify your message The benefits of StartUp Health's new Health Moonshot Community PRO Membership program This episode is a must-listen for any founder looking to build a successful and impactful healthcare company. Tune in now and gain valuable insights from a seasoned entrepreneur and storyteller! 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 PRO 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.
December 6, 2024

Financial Incentives to Close the Gap in Healthcare Utilization: Reciprocity Health’s TheraPay

Many patients have access to healthcare programs but don't participate, leading to poorer health outcomes and higher costs. This episode explores a novel solution: Reciprocity Health – a member of the StartUp Health community since 2023 – has developed their platform TheraPay to use financial incentives to encourage healthy behavior. Hear Matt Swanson, CEO & Co-founder, discuss how to design programs that benefit both patients and the healthcare system. Learn: How TheraPay improves patient engagement for better health outcomes The cost-saving potential of proactive care Strategies for closing the healthcare utilization gap This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in improving healthcare access, financial incentives in health, and building a more cost-effective healthcare system. Listen now and unlock the power of positive reinforcement for better health! 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 StartUp Health’s PRO 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.
November 22, 2024

Insulin Delivery Innovation: These Founders Offer Solutions for Better T1D Management

Hope and Progress in Type 1 Diabetes Management In honor of World Diabetes Day earlier this week, this podcast episode celebrates the strength of our T1D Moonshot Community and explores innovative solutions for better insulin delivery management. This episode features inspiring conversations with: Ole Kjerkegaard Nielsen, PhD, CEO & Co-founder of GO-Pen: Making insulin pens more affordable and accessible Bill Ervin, CEO & Founder of Bulsai: Revolutionizing injection techniques for optimized results Discover how these groundbreaking ventures are: Empowering patients with better tools and technology Addressing key frustrations in current diabetes management Plus, learn about StartUp Health's Health Moonshot Communities, like the T1D Moonshot Community, and how they connect founders tackling the biggest health challenges, such as Type 1 diabetes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone impacted by Type 1 diabetes, healthcare professionals, and innovators passionate about improving patient lives. Listen now and join the movement for a brighter future! 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 StartUp Health’s PRO 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.
November 15, 2024

Selfie Health? Hibiscus Health Uses Facial Scans to Detect Diabetes Risk

Can taking a selfie be good for your health? This week on StartUp Health NOW, we explore a revolutionary new approach to health screening with Kavi Misri, CEO & Founder of Hibiscus Health. Misri is a long-time Health Transformer; after his first StartUp Health portfolio company – Rose Health – was acquired, he launched Hibiscus Health and rejoined the StartUp Health Community. Discover how Hibiscus leverages smartphone selfies to analyze facial blood flow and identify potential risks for diabetes and other conditions: Easy, intuitive screenings designed for broad adoption Works with existing smartphone cameras and webcams Unlocking the potential of selfies for health screening Plus, learn about StartUp Health's Cardiometabolic Health Moonshot Community and how it helps innovative companies accelerate growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of healthcare, preventive medicine, and leveraging technology for better health outcomes. Listen now and see if your selfie can unlock your potential health risks! 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 StartUp Health’s PRO 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.
November 8, 2024

Breaking News: Sinaptica’s Noninvasive Neuromodulation Device Slows Alzheimer’s Disease in Year-Long Trial

Hear the latest groundbreaking news in Alzheimer's research. Sinaptica, a member of StartUp Health's Alzheimer's Moonshot Community, has announced significant results from its Phase 2 clinical trial testing the company's noninvasive, personalized, precise neuromodulation designed to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Ken Mariash, CEO of Sinaptica, joined us in the StartUp Health Studio to break it all down for us. As you’ll hear, the interview took place prior to the release of this data, which became public on October 31. In this exclusive interview, you'll learn: Details on Sinaptica's Phase 2 trial results show significant promise in slowing Alzheimer's progression The science behind Sinaptica's technology How personalized neuromodulation is revolutionizing brain health The potential for proactive brain strengthening and repair The impact on patients' daily lives The future of Alzheimer's treatment This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in Alzheimer's research, neuroscience, and the power of innovation to transform lives. 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 StartUp Health's PRO 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.  
November 1, 2024

Master the Art of Storytelling: Chrissy Farr’s Guide for Health Tech Founders

Elevate your startup's narrative with Chrissy Farr, a renowned health tech journalist and investor. In this Masterclass, members of StartUp Health’s Health Moonshot Communities had a chance to interact directly with Farr, Managing Director at Manatt Health, and health tech investor, advisor, and author of Second Opinion. Farr has impressive communications savvy and a deep understanding of the health industry and emerging trends, with an emphasis on the intersection of health and venture capital. She provides a range of go-to-market, fundraising / investor relations, social media strategy, content development and communications counsel to both emerging and established companies as well as the investors behind them. In this insightful episode, you'll learn: The power of storytelling in shaping your company's future How to craft compelling narratives that resonate with investors and the media Leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT for effective communication Balancing founder time between operations and communications Quantifying the impact of your communications efforts The role of social media in your strategy This episode is a must-listen for any health tech founder looking to refine their messaging and build a stronger brand. Tune in now to unlock the secrets of effective storytelling! Do you want to attend Masterclasses live and ask your questions of experts? Members of our Health Moonshot Communities are leading startups with breakthrough technology-driven solutions for the world’s biggest health challenges. 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.
October 25, 2024
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About StartUp Health

StartUp Health is on a 25-year mission to collaborate with entrepreneurs to improve the health and wellbeing of everyone in the world. Since 2011, StartUp Health has been investing in a global army of entrepreneurs -- called Health Transformers® -- to achieve health moonshots: Access to Care, Cost to Zero, Cure Disease, End to Cancer, Women’s Health, Children’s Health, Nutrition & Fitness, Brain Health, Mental Health & Happiness, Addiction, and Longevity.

Backed by Advocate Aurora Health, Chiesi Group, Steve Case, Mark Cuban, Esther Dyson, Brad Feld, GuideWell, Jason Finger, Jerry Levin, Kaiser Permanente Ventures, Masimo, Novartis, Otsuka, Ping An Group, and SeventySix Capital, StartUp Health has the world’s largest health innovation portfolio with more than 280 companies across six continents and 24 countries. Learn more at startuphealth.com.

Host

Logan Plaster

Logan Plaster

Logan is a journalist and creative director with 20 years of experience in healthcare, tech, entrepreneurship, global health, and emergency medicine. He's been the editor of a medical journal, hosted podcasts, built print magazines for physician and consumer audiences, and overseen corporate media strategies.

His reporting has appeared in Quartz, The Atlantic's CityLab and Runner's World and his work has been recognized by the New York Times (Sidney Award for long-form journalism) and by The Atlantic (Best of Journalism annual round-up). He's a frequent speaker on digital health trends, and has served as visiting faculty at the Columbia Business School.

Whatever the medium, he pushes for honest, human storytelling -- the journalism of empathy -- and focuses on building relationships that last. As the Editor in Chief and Chief Content Officer at StartUp Health, he's working to tell the inspiring stories of the women and men transforming health around the world.

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